The European Parliament approved binding 2030 target for renewables (32%) and an indicative target on energy efficiency (32.5%) that will play a crucial role in meeting the EU’s climate goals. . . .
By 2030, energy efficiency in the EU has to have improved by 32.5%, whereas the share of energy from renewables should be at least 32% of the EU’s gross final consumption. Both targets are to be reviewed by 2023. These targets can only be raised, not lowered.
For the first time, member states will also be obliged to establish specific energy efficiency measures to the benefit of those affected by energy poverty. Member states must also ensure that citizens are entitled to generate renewable energy for their own consumption, to store it and to sell excess production.
Second generation biofuels can play a significant role in reducing the carbon footprint of transport and at least 14% of fuel for transport purposes must come from renewable sources by 2030.
First generation biofuels with a high risk of indirect land use change (ILUC)—i.e. when land is converted from non-crop cultivation such as grasslands and forests to food production, which increases CO2 emissions—will no longer count towards the EU’s renewable energy goals from 2030.
From 2019, the contribution of first-generation biofuels to these goals will gradually be phased out until it reaches zero in 2030.
Each member state must present a ten-year “integrated national energy and climate plan” with national targets, contributions, policies and measures by 31 December 2019, and every ten years thereafter. . . .
The proposal needs to be formally approved by the Council before final publication. Once the European Council formally adopts the deal, the new rules will be published in the Official Journal, and enter into force 20 days after publication. . . .
