EU member states have ‘significantly closed the gap’ to achieving the bloc’s 2030 energy and climate targets, the European Commission has said.
According to the Commission’s assessment of member states’ National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs), the EU is collectively closing in on a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, as well as reaching a share of 42.5% in renewable energy.
It noted that the EU is ‘currently on course’ to reduce net GHG emissions by around 54% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, provided member states implement existing and planned national measures and EU policies.
Green agenda
“Europe is proving that reliable and predictable science-based targets and adequate regulation deliver,” commented Teresa Ribera, executive vice-president for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition.
“The updated National Energy and Climate Plans show that the green agenda is not just a target but a way to modernise our economies and to bet on industrial innovation and more opportunities for Europeans. Our task now is to deepen in our capacities and boost action with no delays. We can deliver 55% and we need to build the conditions to reach 90% by 2040. Competitiveness, security, wealth creation and inclusiveness depend on our capacities to move forward a consistent and comprehensive political action plan.”
The Commission pointed to strategic initiatives such as the Clean Industrial Deal and the Affordable Energy Action Plan as complementing NECPs in mobilising investments in industrial decarbonisation and clean technology, as well as bolstering Europe’s renewable potential and energy efficiency solutions.
‘Solid foundation’
The current assessment provides a ‘solid foundation’ for discussions on the next steps to take to achieve the EU’s decarbonisation goals by 2040, and reach climate neutrality by 2050.
‘Member States are demonstrating political resolve to reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuels, improve the resilience and security of energy supplies and infrastructure, accelerate the integration of the internal energy market and support those who need it the most with investments and skills development,’ the Commission noted.
It urged countries that have not yet submitted final NECPs, including Belgium, Estonia and Poland, to do so urgently, and added that it is currently reviewing Slovakia’s final plan, which was submitted in April 2025. Read more here.
