Europe Introduces Semi-Binding Targets for Renewables

The European Commission confirmed targets for renewable in the EU framework on climate and energy for 2030, accepting the position of the majority of the countries.

‘A reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 40% below the 1990 level, an EU-wide binding target for renewable energy of at least 27%, renewed ambitions for energy efficiency policies, a new governance system and a set of new indicators to ensure a competitive and secure energy system. These are the pillars of the new EU framework on climate and energy for 2030 presented today by the European Commission,’ reads a note released by Brussels on Wednesday. 

But there is a caveat. The ‘EU-wide binding renewable energy target’ will not be that binding. 

‘It would not be translated into national targets through EU legislation, thus leaving flexibility for Member States to transform the energy system in a way that is adapted to national preferences and circumstances,’ reads the note by the European Commission. 

In this sense, European institutions tried to accommodate instances from all the countries. The UK repeatedly asked Brussels to scrap a binding target on renewables, while the majority of the countries asked additional efforts to decarbonise the European economies. 

“The renewables target of at least 27% is an important signal: to give stability to investors, boost green jobs and support our security of supply," European Commission President José Manuel Barroso commented.

The Commission intervened also in the EU ETS

‘The annual reduction in the ‘cap’ on emissions from EU ETS sectors would be increased from 1.74% now to 2.2% after 2020. Emissions from sectors outside the EU ETS would need to be cut by 30% below the 2005 level, and this effort would be shared equitably between the Member States,’ reads the note.