European Union member states have made significant progress toward meeting the bloc’s 2030 climate and energy goals through their final National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs), the European Commission confirmed on Thursday.
However, a new assessment by environmental groups cautioned that without urgent and effective implementation, these plans may fall short of delivering the EU’s broader climate commitments.
The report, published by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe and partner organisations, found that many NECPs lack sufficient ambition, clear financing strategies, and enforceable measures. This shortfall threatens the EU’s longer-term climate objectives, including its 2040 targets.
“Plans alone won’t reduce emissions,” said Brigitta Bozso, energy and climate expert at CAN Europe. “With only five years left, implementation must become the top priority.”
The analysis showed that only half of the reviewed plans contained policy scenarios aligned with the emission reductions required across key sectors such as agriculture, transport, buildings, and waste management. Additionally, most NECPs fell short on energy efficiency targets, contributing to an estimated EU-wide shortfall of 8.1% in energy savings, according to Commission data.
The report also highlighted a lack of clarity on funding, noting that few plans adequately linked their proposed measures to concrete financing sources. “It’s like setting a destination but forgetting to plan the route,” Bozso said.
Stronger implementation of NECPs, the NGO said, could bring wide-ranging public benefits including cleaner air, lower energy costs, and job creation. Bozso called for “solid policies, secured funding, and inclusive engagement” to close the existing gaps.
The report includes detailed country profiles and recommendations for 16 EU states. Germany was singled out for weaknesses in transport and building sector policies, while the Czech Republic’s plan was noted for feasibility but criticised for a lack of clear policy action. Bulgaria’s plan was described as “relatively good on paper” but failing to meet minimum EU requirements for land use and energy consumption.
EU member states are also required to submit national Social Climate Plans by the end of June, outlining how they intend to use the EU Social Climate Fund to support vulnerable populations during the energy transition.
“Closing the remaining gaps will take coordinated effort,” Bozso said. “The European Commission and Member States must work together—urgently and decisively.
