EU leaders gathered in Brussels last week and agreed on an ambitious framework and targets for the EU’s climate and energy policy. They endorsed:
- A binding EU target of at least 40% less GHG emissions by 2030 compared to 1990.
- A binding target of at least 27% of renewable energy used at EU level.
- An energy efficiency increase of at least 27%.
- The completion of the internal energy market by reaching an electricity interconnection target of 15% between member states.
- Pushing forward of important infrastructure projects.
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Jose Manuel Barroso, European Commission President said, ‘this 2030 package is very good news for our fight against climate change. No player in the world is as ambitious as the EU when it comes to cutting GHG emissions…is also good for Europe’s competitiveness because it keeps us on the path to a low carbon economy and green growth, with the necessary financial support and solidarity. The economic case for fighting climate change is clear. Failing to act is far more costly in the long run.’
Connie Hedegaard, EU Climate Action Commissioner said, ‘important not only to Europe and the European’s, but also to the rest of the world. We have sent a strong signal to other big economies and all other countries: we have done our homework, now we urge you to follow Europe’s example.’ Hedegaard also acknowledged that a binding 40% CO2 reduction effort is not an easy task, but she did welcome the adoption of the Commission’s proposal as an ambitious and important step forward.
Edited from press release by Claira Lloyd