The claim that Greece may receive an unfair exemption to increase lignite use (Report, 3 November, theguardian.com) is not justified – it is based on misinterpretations:1) Greece is not trying to “revive its lignite-based model”. Greece is actually among the best performers in emission reductions, as confirmed in the European commission’s 2015 progress report. In 2005-15 Greece achieved a 31% emissions reduction (vs its 6.5% target), 40% reduction of lignite use, and 400% increase in RES share, to 10,000GWh. The system operator’s 2023 projection of generation capacity mix comprises 56% renewable energy sources (RES) and a 14% lignite. The country’s energy plan for 2030 aims to reduce emissions by 55% vs 2005 (including a 62% reduction in lignite emissions).

Source: The Guardian November 24, 2016 17:46 UTC