As discussions begin on the post-2030 EU energy and climate framework, civil society and industry are calling for a strong, ambitious, and binding framework that accelerates the transition to an affordable, secure, renewable, efficient and electrified energy system and delivers a fossil fuel exit.
The last decade has been marred in geopolitical uncertainty and fossil fuel crisis. Europe is the fastest warming continent and is now contending with record-high energy prices. The root cause of these issues has been Europe’s over-reliance on fossil fuels, which is getting exposed time and time again. As Europe experiences the worst ever energy price crisis, it is people and businesses that are bearing the brunt.
The EU’s 2030 energy and climate framework has already shown that a clear direction, binding targets and coordinated European action bring tangible benefits. Through the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) and the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED), the EU has accelerated renewable energy deployment, improved energy efficiency, reduced emissions, supported economic growth and job creation, and helped shield citizens and businesses from volatile fossil fuel prices.
It is time to build on this success as Europe enters its next energy era. Europe now needs an ambitious and binding post-2030 energy framework with renewable energy, energy efficiency and renewable-based electrification at its core.The framework must be backed by strong implementation and enforcement mechanisms, accelerated investments in grids, flexibility and storage, and stronger cross-border cooperation to unlock a secure, resilient and cost-effective energy system.
In an increasingly volatile geopolitical context, Europe must accelerate the phase-out of fossil fuels and fast-track the transition to a renewable, efficient and electrified energy system that delivers energy security, affordable energy and long-term competitiveness for citizens and industry alike.