Is “energy independency” the new Graal or a dangerous illusion?

Is “energy independency” the new Graal or a dangerous illusion?

“Fight for energy independence” and “use the weapon of renewable energy to win the battle”.

With the energy crisis and the explosion of imported oil and gas prices, many countries around the world have adopted these two commandments and passed laws to accelerate the development of wind, solar and nuclear energy projects. The idea seems attractive: it is accompanied by the image of national or even local consumption, which would benefit both household budgets and the fight against global warming.

But is it realistic?

What about the issue of critical minerals, for example, whose demand is expected to explode in the coming years with the growing deployment of solar and wind energy and electric vehicles?

What about the issue of biodiversity, given that renewable energy projects often require large areas of land and that land artificialisation is the main cause of biodiversity loss? Should European countries open lithium mines?

How could this be acceptable, given that the “not in my backyard” effect has long slowed down the development of projects?

Are there any best practices in Europe?

Experts :

Thierry Lepercq, CEO Hydeal

– Stefano Buono, Co-founder, Newcleo

– Pierre-Emmanuel Martin, President & Co-founder, Carbon