The European Union (EU) and its member states have recently taken another significant step in their efforts to combat climate change and enhance energy security. Diplomats from EU countries are set to finalize a new law on Wednesday that would commit the bloc to getting 42.5% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.
The EU's push for renewable energy is driven by its desire to decarbonize its economies and create a European green industry. The new target is aimed at reducing the bloc's dependence on energy imports from countries like Russia, thereby enhancing energy security.
The law, which confirms a political deal reached with the European Parliament in March, still requires formal approval from EU countries and the European Parliament. However, this is usually a formality and the deal is expected to be approved with no changes.
The new target replaces the EU's existing goal of having a 32% share of renewable energy by 2030. The law sets a binding target of 42.5%, with member states being encouraged to aim for 45%. This new target is a significant increase and will require significant efforts from member states to achieve.
The transport sector will also be required to play its part, with member states being required to achieve a 29% share of renewable energy or reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of their transport sector by at least 13%.
EU member states will also be required to increase their use of renewable energy in industry by 1.6% per year. By 2030, 42% of the hydrogen used in industrial processes must be derived from renewable energy, rising to 60% by 2035.
The negotiations leading up to the finalization of the law were tense, with France pushing to include hydrogen produced by nuclear energy. However, this proposal was not included in the final text.
The new law represents a significant step towards achieving the EU's decarbonization and energy security goals. However, it will require significant efforts from member states to achieve, and it remains to be seen how effectively the new target will be implemented.
