The Economic Impact and the Decoupling of Economic Growth from Renewable Energy Consumption within the European Union in the Context of Social Well-Being

This study investigates how economic growth affects renewable electricity consumption in the European Union, using Tapio and LMDI on data from 2013 to 2022. Our analysis reveals that Western European countries decouple growth from energy use more effectively than Eastern ones. Economic instability and the weakness of green policies hinder the progress, economic fragility and poverty further slow the transition to sustainability. Effective policies are needed for resilience and fair energy transition. These insights guide policymakers to promote faster adoption of renewables and reduce regional disparities across the EU, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future.