Response to Commission’s call for evidence on improving the design of renewable energy auctions

The European Environmental Bureau (EEB) provides feedback to the European Commission on its forthcoming Recommendation and Guidance on improving the design of auctions for renewable energy projects following the publication of the European Wind Power Action Plan.

The EEB proposes that EU countries develop competitive tendering processes that reward projects with strong biodiversity, eco-design and minimised habitat disturbance features, and should also encourage innovation and community involvement. The EEB recommends dedicating a substantial percentage (50-75%, depending on the type and size of the project) of auction award points to non-price criteria relating to social and environmental performance of the project.