The European Union’s goal by 2020 is to use 20% of energy from renewable sources. The renewable energy sources are wind, solar energy, hydro and tidal power, geothermal energy and biomass. A higher share of renewable energy sources in final consumption enables reducing the production of greenhouse gases, as well as a decrease in the dependence on imported electricity. The development of RES industry stimulates technological innovation and job creation in Europe. The use of energy from renewable sources is encouraged in the buildings sector on the EU level both in new and reconstructed buildings.
In terms of Croatian plans for 2020, and in accordance with the Renewable Energy Directive (2009/28/EC), the Republic of Croatia has committed to reach a share of 20% of energy from renewable sources in its gross final energy consumption, and this has been incorporated into the Energy Strategy of the Republic of Croatia.
The Republic of Croatia has fulfilled all obligations under the above mentioned Directive, including also the provision of a certification programme or equivalent qualification programme for installers of renewable energy systems:
- photovoltaic system
- solar thermal system
- shallow geothermal systems and heat pumps
- smaller boilers and biomass boilers
