Commission reactions on NECPs: the plans fall short of ambition to reach climate targets

EU countries are required to develop integrated National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) that cover the five dimensions of the energy union for the period 2021 to 2030 (and every subsequent ten year period). Member states must provide their documents next December, but they have already submitted a draft version to the European Commission. The EU executive, in charge of monitoring the development of the national plans, has shared some concerns on the ambition of the reports received so far.

According to the findings of the European Commission, the submitted drafts fall short both in terms of renewables and energy efficiency contributions in reaching the EU’s overall climate and energy goals. Most of them stay too vague with regard to concrete policies and measures.

The European Renewable Energies Federation (EREF), of which EBA is a member, has informed the leadership of the EU Commission with direct letters on its worry that the upcoming draft for a new Renewable Directive beyond 2020 and the related Impact Assessment may miss out on crucial points. EREF fears that there are several major points which are in danger of being left out in the new RES Directive.

“The ambition of some of the NECPs could be enhanced with better recognition of the role of green gas in reducing emissions and increasing the share of renewable energy. We must make sure that all Member States, with their specific resources and contexts, provide a significant contribution to achieve EU climate targets.” explained Susanna Pflüger, Secretary General of the EBA.

Check National Energy and Climate Plans

Read EREF’s press release on the Commission reactions