EU puts forward 2030 climate and energy goals
The European Commission has put forward a framework for greenhouse-gas emissions and renewable energy to be achieved by 2030. The target for greenhouse-gas emissions is 40% below 1990 levels, with an EU-wide binding target for renewable energy of at least 27% There is also a set of new indicators to ensure a competitive and secure energy system. The framework will be debated by the European Council and European Parliament.
A statement from the European Commission explains that the framework is ‘supported by a detailed analysis on energy prices and costs’ and that it ‘will ensure regulatory certainty for investors and a co-ordinated approach among member states, leading to the development of new technologies.’
The statement continues, ‘The framework aims to drive continued progress towards a low-carbon economy and a competitive and secure energy system that ensures affordable energy for all consumers, increases the security of the EU’s energy supplies, reduces our dependence on energy imports and creates new opportunities for growth and jobs by taking into account potential price impacts on the longer term.’
Energy efficiency is included in the framework, with the comment that ‘no transition towards a competitive, secure and sustainable energy system is possible without it’.
Commenting on the 40% emissions-reduction target. Leonie Greene, head of external affairs with the Solar Trade Association, said, ‘It is something that Europe has agreed a 40% emissions reduction target, albeit not high enough, but renewable energy stands at the heart of achieving this. From a climate perspective, Europe needs to expedite, not slow, renewables deployment. From an economic perspective, weakening ambition is nonsensical — given the massive investments in renewables our international competitors are making.’
