The energy sector remains 'stubbornly resistant' to solar photovoltaics (PV) and other types of renewable energy, according to senior European Commission official Tom Howes.
News website theparliament.com reports that renewable energy is still seen in some quarters as 'too expensive and problematic'.

Mr Howes, who works for the Commission's energy directorate, is quoted as saying: 'Some still think we would be better sticking to gas and nuclear energy. It is incorrect to say renewables are too expensive and problematic but this suggests that the argument for renewable energy, including solar power, is yet to be won.'

He added: 'Costs in the PV sector are coming down because it is becoming a more global industry. This is partly due to the entry of countries like China into the market, although it could be asked if this is the result of unfair trade practices.'

The commission recently launched a major anti-dumping investigation against China for solar panel imports into Europe.