European Parliament elections to be green?
Across the EU, Member States are preparing for the upcoming elections for the European Parliament as millions of Europeans head to the ballot boxes between 6-9 June 2024.?
The EU has made ambitious climate targets – the most immediate being reducing greenhouse gas emissions with 55% before 2030, compared to 1990 levels, known as the 'Fit for 55' package. To reach the 2030 targets, and climate neutrality in 2050, the EU must take the lead and follow up and enforce adopted rules, as well as looking ahead and spur the development of new solutions. ?
Against the backdrop of the geopolitical situation, the EU has had to focus on energy security and independence. As a response, the EU implemented the REPowerEU plan in 2022, with the main goal of liberating the EU from Russian natural gas, promoting investments in energy infrastructure expansion and energy efficiency. ?
With an enhanced integrated electricity grid, the EU would save 10 percent of renewable power that is currently being wasted. Better grid connections across EU Member States can help improve energy distribution and reduce losses while facilitating efficient use of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. The recent inauguration of the Viking Link being a great and tangible example, promoting regional energy security and stability between the United Kingdom and Denmark.?
Prioritising investment in renewables as well as innovative technologies, such as biosolutions, can help support climate goals and strengthen the EU’s competitiveness globally. This includes strategic funding for innovative projects that can support the EU's path to net-zero, and investments in green initiatives that can drive inclusive economic growth across Member States. ?
In order to improve energy security and promote regional connectivity across the EU, both cross-border partnerships, as well as public-private partnerships are essential to advance green initiatives, achieving climate and energy goals across the EU. By bringing together the public and private sectors, the EU can innovate more effectively and create scalable solutions – together.?
The upcoming elections are seen by many as crucial for the EU’s future as leader in the global green transition, and for the continent to reach both immediate and long-term climate targets.?
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