MEP Nicolás González Casares: “This wind solution using kites is amazing and we have to boost this idea“
“The future is unwritten, but we must ensure that, through concrete policy decisions, innovation in renewables is part of the story.” With these powerful words, MEP Thomas Pellerin-Carlin captured the spirit of a dynamic and forward-looking morning at the European Parliament on 13 May 2025.
Hosted by MEP Nicolás González Casares, the Parliamentary Breakfast on Innovative Renewable Energy Technologies (iRETs) brought together EU policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to explore how Europe can strengthen its global leadership in clean energy innovation. “We have to develop our own iRETs in Europe as an innovative, cheap and affordable solution” remarked Nicolás González Casares.
The event was co-organised by Airborne Wind Europe, Future Cleantech Architects, EUREC – The Association of European Renewable Energy Research Centres, and ETIPWind.
Key messages from the Breakfast:
Participants identified several critical needs to unlock the potential of innovative renewable energy technologies:
- A clear target for iRETs within the EU’s 2040 climate goal — because ambition must be backed by direction.
- Inclusion of innovative renewables in the upcoming EU Electrification Action Plan and the 2028–2034 research and innovation programme.
- Technology-specific financial support at both EU and national level to bring demonstration projects to life — including for Airborne Wind Energy, next-gen photovoltaics, deep geothermal, and ocean energy. “Our technologies are made in Europe and for Europe and help increase the energy security in our continent” underscored Kristian Petrick, Secretary General of AWEU.
Five iRET innovators took the stage to present their technologies and visions. Representatives of the European Commission, including Patrick Brenier (Advisor for the European Research Area and open science at European Commission – DG RTD) and Paula Rey Garcia (Deputy Head of Unit for Renewables and Energy System Integration Policy – DG ENER), detailed existing support mechanisms — from funding and deployment to permitting and public acceptance — and reinforced the EU’s commitment to advancing innovative renewable solutions.
AWE in the Spotlight – Outdoor Exhibition
While conversations unfolded inside the Parliament, innovation was also on display outside.
Just steps away on the Esplanade, a 40m² Airborne Wind Energy kite system caught the eyes of passers-by and sparked meaningful exchanges with:
- Policymakers such as Nicolás González Casares and his team who also said that “this wind solution using kites is amazing and we have to boost this idea since it can even produce energy in isolated places and islands”.
- Journalists including Andrew Boyce (MLex) and Glenn Saldukaite (The Parliament Magazine)
- Curious citizens, students, and school groups
The exhibition showcased the potential of Airborne Wind Energy as a scalable, low-footprint, and high-altitude wind solution that can complement the EU’s existing renewable energy mix.
Special thanks to Mark Hoppe and Andrei Luca for their support in making the demonstration a success, and to everyone who contributed to a day filled with engagement, insight, and shared purpose.
Next Steps
Airborne Wind Europe will continue advocating for iRETs to receive the visibility and support they deserve. With collaboration and ambition, Europe can turn today’s innovations into tomorrow’s energy system. Let’s keep the momentum going.