Efficiency and dependence in the European electricity transition

Although the European Union sets common objectives, each member country is in charge of its own energy policy. An exhaustive analysis of the power generation mixes of the EU member countries from 1990 to 2017 has revealed strong disparities in the evolution of their structure. Using key performance indicators, the paper analyzes the current situation in terms of carbon intensity, dependence, vulnerability and energy transition dynamics. The paper focuses on the transition dynamics for 12 emblematic EU countries. It is worthwhile to note that most of these countries have managed to reduce the carbon intensity of their electricity. The analysis revealed, for some countries, an empirical relationship between imports and the carbon intensity of power generation. The increase of the share of renewable energies induces a dependence of a country on its neighbors as long as a massive storage of electricity is not available. The increased electricity trade with neighboring countries induce costs and benefits. Only countries that have invested heavily in hydro and nuclear power benefit from both a low-carbon electrical production mix and a low dependence on imports. Finally, the paper suggests some avenues for public policies in the energy field.