EWEA: ECJ Åland ruling provides added clarity for investors

“The European Wind Energy Association welcomes the clarity provided today by the European Court of Justice's decision on the Åland case.

The ECJ's ruling shows that the Renewable Energy Directive is compatible with the free movement of goods principle in the EU Treaty. This will provide added clarity for investors in the wind industry and reinforces stable regulatory frameworks, which are of paramount importance.

The Court finds that the restriction of the free movement of goods is justified by the public interest objective of promoting the use of renewable energy sources in order to protect the environment and combat climate change.

The Court also notes that support mechanisms need continuity to ensure that the legitimate expectations of investors are guaranteed in order to foster investments in wind energy.”