EU renewable electricity has reduced environmental pressures; Specific actions contribute to further reduce impacts

This report from the European Environment Agency investigates changes in the electricity mix since 2005, and their trade-offs from a life cycle perspective to help policymakers and individuals focus on the areas that offer improvement opportunities. Renewable electricity could rise to 70 percent of all power generation by 2030 to enable a 55% net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Despite the multiple benefits to human health and the environment associated with reducing the use of fossil fuels for energy, increasing the supply of renewable energy is not without impact.