A Conference on Sustainable Energy for EU Crisis Management was held in the framework of 5th RENEXPO Central Europe in Budapest, on 5th and 6th May. The conference has been designed to provide a platform for participants to meet and share experience in the field of production and use of renewable energy.

The conference organized by the European Defence Agency (EDA) has produced a common understanding of what mechanisms affect energy supply projected onto logistics, novel systems, design and acquisition as well as implementation of novel policies and strategies. Among the participants of the event were representatives of EUFOR, EDA, European Commission, EU Member States and a U.S. expert.

EU Crisis Management Operations (CMOs) rely almost entirely on fossil fuels to supply the necessary energy. The longer the duration and the more complex the CMO, the more dramatically burden on the logistic supply chain increases. Due to the dependency on fossil fuel, modern civil and military CMOs are not only susceptible to fluctuations in fuel prices but also burdened by the compelling cost of fuel convoys. The convoys in turn introduce new risks to the operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel in theatre.

The participants of the conference have reached the following conclusion: energy is the key issue of all military operations including EU Crisis Management Operations. The conference has set to increase energy efficiency, reduce energy increase and raise awareness on the need for renewable energy resources.

(Ministry of Defence)