Renewable Energy Technologies in Greece: A Patent Based Approach

Abstract

Energy was always a subject that preoccupied countries and their governments. Energy relied on the exploitation of fossil fuels for many years but since the 1970s alternative energy sources started being first developed and then diffused. The oil crises contributed to this change. At the same time the discussion on energy matters moved from self sufficiency to environmental concerns. This led to a new phase in the development of alternative energy and to the rise of new technologies in this field, the so called renewable energy technologies. The present study is designed to analyze the development of renewable energy technologies in Greece, as described by patents filed and granted by the Greek Patent Office. Specifically, the study presents an overview of the number and nature of patents for all types of renewable energy technologies, examines their technological content, identifies the major trends, if any, and puts all the above in a wider policy context while positioning Greece at the international context. Greece is a country that utilizes lignite for electricity generation, as its main domestic resource, while being heavily dependent on oil imports. The focus and the further development in renewable energy could help the country reduce energy import dependency while also contributing to environmental goals. Therefore, investing in renewable energy technologies could be a viable development solution, but this requires in-depth analysis of the country’s overall pattern, trends and capacity in technological innovation. The study is designed to contribute to this effort.