Europe’s energy security and climate ambitions depend on electrifying nearly all parts of the economy, according to the head of the International Energy Agency. Speaking at a Euronews panel during the World Economic Forum in Davos, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said Europe must move decisively towards clean electricity and away from fossil fuels. He argued that widespread electrification is the only path to deliver energy security, meet climate targets, and keep energy affordable.
Birol called for electrification across transport, industry, buildings and energy systems, describing it as a single, clear future for the continent. To achieve this, he outlined two main priorities. The first is large-scale investment in electricity grids, and the second is reducing energy costs for consumers and businesses.
He stressed that Europe’s ageing grid infrastructure is a major obstacle. A recent study by energy think tank Ember found that while the EU is producing more renewable power than ever, outdated grids are limiting its ability to move electricity efficiently across the region.
The European Commission has responded by launching a Grids Package to modernize transmission networks. Business leaders welcomed the move, adding that digitalisation and smarter systems will also be essential to improve efficiency and manage demand.
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