An EU law perspective on the role of regional authorities in the field of renewable energy

This chapter maps and analyses the specific position of regional authorities in view of EU climate and energy law. It specifically focuses on the role taken by such authorities in the light of the transition towards a society increasingly employing renewable energy. Section 2 discusses the potential influence exerted by regional authorities through the Committee of the Regions on the development and content of EU climate and energy legislation. Section 3 examines how the Renewable Energy Directive may influence local renewable energy policies, and will particularly point at the need for national governments to set up clear policies for rewarding ambitious local action. Section 4 highlights the specific authorization role regional governments might play in renewable energy projects. Section 5 concludes and gives an outlook on European practice and related research questions.