Conclusion to the Handbook on the Economics of Renewable Energy

This book has specifically focused on the benefits and costs of renewable energy, in short, on the economics of renewable energy. It has tried to provide a comprehensive overview of key themes in the economics of renewable energy at different levels (theoretical, methodological and empirical), grouped into six main parts (theoretical/methodological guidelines, focus on socioeconomic benefits, focus on costs, focus on self-generation and collective energy auctions, future-looking perspectives and renewable energy policy). Therefore, in addition to the focus on benefits and costs, we have adopted a broader perspective on relevant economic issues for the future of the energy transition in general and for renewable energy in particular, all of them with considerable policy implications. In particular, geopolitical aspects, innovation and technology aspects and risk/financing aspects are covered. Finally, an in-depth economic analysis of policy issues has been provided.