EWEA welcomes Brussels probe into EU capacity markets

The EC is to initially seek information from 11 member states that either have capacity mechanisms in place or are considering introducing them. 

Capacity mechanisms, also sometimes called capacity markets, are used in some EU countries to fund generation capacity that may not be cost-effective but is required to guarantee supply during periods of peak demand.

The European Wind Energy Association  (EWEA) says it is important that the EC is scrutinising the use of capacity mechanisms at a national level, and whether they are a necessary measure.

“We