Lithuanian officials have announced a reduction in funding for solar energy, transitioning towards different energy support measures, which could impede the country's renewable energy goals.
At a press conference, Gintarė Skaistė, Deputy Chairwoman of a political party in Lithuania, revealed plans concerning the redistribution of funds from the 'Next Generation Lithuania' initiative, in which approximately a quarter of the €154 million allocated will be directed towards renewable energy, including solar power. This represents a significant decline as prior allocations had provided more robust support for the solar energy sector. Skaistė highlighted that similar cuts have been observed in the European Union's structural funds, further reducing the financial backing for green energy projects.
In the context of these cuts, concerns have been raised regarding the ambition of Lithuania's National Energy Independence Strategy, which aimed to establish 300,000 electricity-producing consumers by 2030. The diminishing support and changes in funding conditions are perceived as a shift away from the previous trajectory that promised growth within the renewable energy sector. The adjustments in funding raise questions about Lithuania's responsiveness towards its climate and energy goals amidst broader EU objectives for renewable energy expansion.
The implications of such funding cuts may hinder Lithuania's progress in achieving a sustainable energy framework and contribute to delays in meeting its long-term renewable energy targets. With the urgent need for transitioning to renewable sources emphasized globally, the announcement of reduced support for solar energy in Lithuania reflects a critical juncture for the nation, necessitating a reevaluation of priorities to maintain momentum in the renewable energy landscape.
