Denmark sets the bar high for energy policy Denmark is a leader in implementing ...

Denmark sets the bar high for energy policy Denmark is a leader in implementing well-designed policies for renewable energy, energy efficiency and climate change, according to a review of Danish energy policies published by the International Energy Agency (IEA). The review, Energy policies of IEA countries - Denmark - 2011 review, applauds Denmark's long-term vision for a low carbon future (all Danish energy supply is to come from renewable sources by 2050) and its achievements to date, but it also gives caution regarding the implementation of such an ambitious strategy. Denmark aims to generate 50% of its electricity supply from renewable energy sources by 2020, and is in a good place to meet this target, says the IEA. However, the organisation warns that integrating large volumes of variable electricity supply will require a large reconfiguration of the country’s electricity network, both within Denmark and elsewhere. Denmark is well connected with its neighbours, but more investment in interconnectors will be needed. Furthermore, the IEA states that the phase out of coal-fired generation capacity will have to be managed with care. As President of the Council of the European Union, Denmark can play a key role in finalising the Energy Efficiency Directive which will help the EU reach its goal of reducing the level of energy consumption by 20% by 2020. The IEA also places Denmark at the forefront of technology research, development and deployment alongside renewable energy policy development. It recommends that Denmark takes the necessary steps to develop its training and educational capacity to ensure it continues to enjoy access to highly qualified labour and research communities with skills needed to deliver a low carbon future. This radical transformation of the energy sector will not be cheap. Denmark has estimated that the transition costs will be in the region of $1bn.