Decarbonization dynamics: investigating the mutual effects of renewable and nuclear energy in shaping EU countries’ decarbonization pathways

Jana Chovancová and Igor Petruška

Chapter 5 in Handbook on Economic Growth and the Environment, 2026, pp 109-143 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: The complex relationship between energy consumption, economic growth and CO2 emissions is the subject of global research. Using econometric models and advanced methods, this relationship is examined for a panel of 22 European countries from 1992 to 2019. The results reveal that increased energy production from renewable sources and nuclear power contributes to CO2 emissions reduction, with renewables showing a consistently significant effect; however, the impact of nuclear is more complex and nuanced. Energy consumption drives CO2 emissions significantly, while most models indicate that higher GDP levels are associated with emissions reduction, supporting the EKC hypothesis. In light of these findings, two key policy recommendations emerge. First, the imperativeness of enhancing energy efficiency and fostering renewable energy production gains in importance. Second, the role of nuclear energy in decarbonization strategies needs to be carefully considered and assessed, as its statistical significance in reducing CO2 was comparatively weaker than that of other variables.

Keywords: Decarbonization; CO2 Emissions; Renewable Energy; Nuclear Energy; Economic Growth; EU Countries (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035322589
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