The European Commission and the High Representative have launched a new international strategy aimed at reinforcing the European Union’s position in global climate and energy markets, the institutions said on Tuesday.
The strategy adds an external dimension to the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal and outlines measures to secure Europe’s industrial base, promote fair transition standards, and address evolving energy security challenges. The plan positions the EU as a key global supplier of clean technologies and climate adaptation solutions.
“The EU will focus its climate and energy diplomacy on securing energy supply and building mutually beneficial partnerships powered by clean energy,” said High Representative Kaja Kallas.
The Commission said renewable energy remains central to the strategy, noting that nearly half of the EU’s electricity in 2024 is generated from renewable sources. Since 2015, clean energy investments in the EU have risen by 111%.
The plan includes a target to capture 15% of the global clean technology market, with a focus on boosting industrial competitiveness and supporting a rules-based international order.
Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera emphasised the economic opportunity behind the transition. “Europe’s companies can turn high environmental standards into lasting prosperity and drive sustainable global growth,” she said.
Wopke Hoekstra, Commissioner for Climate, Net Zero and Clean Growth, said the strategy includes efforts to scale up clean energy investment and reform global financial systems to facilitate the energy transition. “We aim to boost clean investments and reform finance to make the global transition a success,” Hoekstra said.
Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen called the approach “a paradigm shift,” combining diplomacy, trade, industrial policy and finance to deliver shared energy and economic benefits.
The strategy also supports international engagement through multilateral and bilateral partnerships, increased overseas clean tech investment, and broader adoption of carbon pricing mechanisms.
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to climate neutrality by 2050. Since 1990, it has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 37% and remains the world’s largest contributor of international climate finance.
