EU politicians have reached an agreement on more ambitious targets to expand the use of renewable energy by 2030.
The Renewable Energy Directive (RED) has set a renewable energy target of 42.5% by 2030 with an additional 2.5% indicative top up for 45%, up from 32%.
This deal brings the EU one step closer to completing the “Fit for 55” legislation to deliver the European Green Deal and the REPowerEU objectives.
MEP Markus Pieper stated in a Twitter post: “42.5% binding renewable target by 2030. Faster approval processes. Biomass remains 100% renewable. Checking the definition of green hydrogen and much more. A good day for Europe’s energy transition.”
Ember’s recent analysis shows the “enormous” financial benefits of achieving the 45% target, and how 45% is achievable under the current market direction of clean technologies.
Sarah Brown, Ember’s Europe Programme Lead, said: “This decision clearly recognises that the EU can and should be reaching for 45% renewable energy by 2030.
“However, by making 2.5% of that target aspirational, it has failed to fully seize this opportunity to strengthen energy security and achieve climate goals.
“It is now critical that Member States take ambitious action to strive for the full target to reap the benefits of Europe’s energy transition.”