Search

Your results

Showing 10 of 70 results

Renewable energy in the EU

At a Glance 04-03-2024

Due to the recent energy crisis, there is a growing focus on renewable energy sources within the European Union (EU) as a possible solution to challenges such as energy security and high prices. The 2023 Renewable Energy Directive (RED) requires the EU to achieve a 42.5 % share of renewable energy sources (RES) in gross final energy consumption by 2030. As of 2022, the EU has reached a 23 % share of renewables in its energy consumption. In analysing the EU’s energy landscape, it is crucial to note ...

The electricity market reform proposed in the aftermath of the energy crisis includes a proposal to improve energy market transparency, enhance the role of regulatory bodies and ensure protection against market manipulation. The co-legislators reached a provisional agreement in November 2023. The European Parliament is due to vote on the agreed text during its February II 2024 plenary session.

Wind energy in the EU

Briefing 29-01-2024

Renewable energy plays a crucial role in the context of EU climate targets and energy security needs. Wind energy will be central to accelerating the roll-out of renewables and the green transition outlined in the European Green Deal and the REPowerEU plan. In 2022, the total installed wind power capacity in the EU reached 204 GW (gigawatts), most of which was onshore (92 %). The European Commission estimates that new EU target of at least 42.5 % renewable energy in energy consumption by 2030 will ...

On 14 March 2023, the European Commission proposed a reform of the EU electricity market, with the aim of reducing price volatility for consumers and creating favourable conditions for investors in low-carbon energy. The reform includes two legislative proposals – one on electricity market design (EMD) and the other on protection against wholesale energy market manipulation (REMIT). The reform would improve consumer protection by offering more fixed-price contracts and enhancing supplier obligations ...

On 14 July 2021 the European Commission adopted the 'fit for 55' package, which adapts existing climate and energy legislation to meet the new EU objective of a minimum 55 % reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030. The 'fit for 55' package is part of the European Green Deal, which aims to put the EU firmly on the path towards climate neutrality by 2050. A key element in the 'fit for 55' package is the revision of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II), to help the EU deliver the new ...

Energy transition in the EU

Briefing 30-11-2023

Energy is central to the European Union's transition towards climate neutrality by 2050, in line with the European Green Deal. As the biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union (EU), the energy sector is undergoing a profound transformation on the path to a net-zero economy. The shift to a more sustainable energy system entails switching from fossil fuels to low-carbon and renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency in products, industry and buildings, and creating ...

Renewable Energy Directive

At a Glance 08-11-2023

The revised Renewable Energy Directive sets a target of a 42.5 % share of renewables in EU energy consumption by 2030, with additional targets for sectors such as transport, buildings, industry, and heating and cooling.

Social Climate Fund

At a Glance 10-10-2023

The Social Climate Fund will support the most vulnerable citizens and companies affected by the extension of the EU emissions trading system (ETS) to the buildings and road transport sectors. It can be used for direct income support and investments in energy efficiency-related building renovations and sustainable transport.

In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the ensuing energy crisis, the EU has undertaken a number of steps to develop its energy infrastructure. These included diversifying import routes, developing energy networks and improving cross-border interconnections. The EU legislative framework on energy infrastructure is based on the Regulation on trans-European networks for energy (TEN E). It sets out guidelines for EU cross-border infrastructure, including projects of common interest (PCIs ...

Energy poverty in the EU

Briefing 18-09-2023

In 2022, over 41 million Europeans were unable to keep their homes adequately warm. Energy poverty is a multi-dimensional phenomenon, considered to be caused by a combination of low income, high energy expenses, and poor energy efficiency in buildings. The EU has been addressing this issue in various legislative and non-legislative initiatives, most recently in the context of its climate policies and energy transition, as well as the energy crisis. The Gas and Electricity Directives ensure the protection ...