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The aim of this paper is to assess several pathways of a harmonised European policy framework for supporting renewable electricity (RES-E) in a 2030 horizon according to different criteria. The pathways combine two main dimensions: degrees of harmonisation and instruments and design elements. A quantitative model-based analysis with the Green-X model is provided. The results of the simulations show that there are small differences between the evaluated cases regarding effectiveness. All the policy pathways score similarly with respect to RES-E deployment, i.e., with different degrees of harmonisation and whether using a feed-in tariff, a feed-in premium, a quota system with banding or a quota without banding scheme. In contrast, the policy costs clearly differ across the pathways, but the differences can mostly be attributed to the instruments rather than to the degrees of harmonisation. This is also the case with other criteria (static and dynamic efficiency and the socioeconomic and environmental benefits in terms of CO2 emissions and fossil fuels avoided). Both the degree of harmonisation and the choice of instrument influence the distribution of support costs across countries. Finally, our findings suggest that keeping strengthened national support leads to similar results to other policy pathways.

This study describes the models employed, the main scenario constraints and the energy and climate policy assumptions for a companion study on "European decarbonisation pathways under alternative technological and policy choices: A multi-model analysis." We describe the main characteristics, the coverage and applications of seven large-scale energy-economy EU models used in the aforementioned study (PRIMES, GEM-E3, TIMES-PanEu, NEMESIS, WorldScan, Green-X and GAINS). The alternative scenarios modelled and the underlying assumptions and constraints are also specified. The main European energy and climate policies assumed to be implemented in the Reference scenario are outlined. We explain the formula used for the decomposition of carbon emissions reduction achieved in the basic decarbonisation scenario relative to the reference. Detailed model results for the power generation mix and RES deployment in the basic decarbonisation scenario in the EU are also presented. We conclude the description of our modelling approach with a brief comparison of the strengths and weaknesses of the models used.

This paper explores in a systematic manner the required energy system transformations and the associated costs incurred for the EU in order to meet the decarbonisation targets as specified in the EU Roadmap 2050, i.e. the 80% GHG emissions reduction target and the equivalent carbon budget by 2050. Seven large-scale energy-economy models, namely PRIMES, TIMES-PanEu, GEM-E3, NEMESIS, WorldScan, Green-X and GAINS, which have been extensively used in EU climate and energy policy analysis are employed for the simulation and quantification of alternative EU decarbonisation pathways under technological limitations and climate policy delays. The multi-model perspective provides valuable insights for the formulation of robust policies. The model results show that the EU emissions reduction target is feasible with currently known technological options at low costs (lower than 1% of GDP in the period 2015-2050). Models confirm the EU Roadmap priorities for 2050 with regard to accelerated energy efficiency, transport electrification and supply-side restructuring with high RES, CCS and nuclear deployment. Decarbonisation targets are found feasible even in cases with technological limitations regarding CCS and nuclear technologies and delays in transport electrification albeit with higher costs. Delaying emission reduction action until 2030 has significant adverse effects on energy system costs and stresses the system capabilities for decarbonisation.

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