Energy

Energy and Climate Plan for the years 2021-2030

Greenhouse gas emissions – raising the ambition

As part of the European Green Deal, the Commission proposed in September 2020 to raise the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target, including emissions and removals, to at least 55% compared to 1990.

It looked at the actions required across all sectors, including increased energy efficiency and renewable energy, and started the process of making detailed legislative proposals by June 2021 to implement and achieve the increased ambition.

This will enable the EU to move towards a climate-neutral economy and implement its commitments under the Paris Agreement by updating its Nationally Determined Contribution.

The 2030 climate and energy framework includes EU-wide targets and policy objectives for the period from 2021 to 2030.

2030 climate and energy framework – existing ambition

Key targets for 2030:

The 40% greenhouse gas target is implemented by the EU Emissions Trading System, the Effort Sharing Regulation with Member States’ emissions reduction targets and the Land use, land use change and forestry Regulation. In this way, all sectors will contribute to the achievement of the 40% target by both reducing emissions and increasing removals.

All three pieces of climate legislation will now be updated with a view to implement the proposed at least 55% net greenhouse gas emissions reduction target. The Commission will come forward with the proposals by June 2021.

Governance system

Under the Regulation on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, the EU has adopted integrated rules to ensure planning, monitoring and reporting of progress towards its 2030 climate and energy targets and its international commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Based on the better regulation principles, the governance process involves consultations with citizens and stakeholders.