Commissioner Piebalgs’ decision underlines the credibility and high-profile nature of EWEA events, and reflects the increasing political support for wind energy. EWEC 2008 offers wind industry players a unique opportunity to present their knowledge and experience and showcase the latest technological developments to key decision makers in the heart of Europe.

The annual event takes place during a crucial period for energy policy, with the 20% renewable energy target and post-2010 legislative framework for renewables and climate change under discussion. Building on the commitment to renewables made earlier this year by European heads of state, Piebalgs has already expressed his support for wind energy in an interview with Wind Directions (May/June 2007). “By 2020, one third of power should come from renewables – and the largest share could and should come from wind energy,” he said. “This is a huge challenge. However, the wind energy dynamic has been so positive that it is realistic to believe that wind power will deliver – and perhaps more than we expected.” Piebalgs’ also talked about the wider benefits that wind energy can bring. “If we want to be in a leading position, sell technology and create jobs in Europe, we need to invest in technology,” he told Wind Directions, adding that “we need to continue to invest in research and development and in the wind energy sector in general, in order to maintain our competitive advantage with other markets.”