The 2030 climate and energy framework includes EU-wide targets and policy objectives for the period from 2021 to 2030.

 

Key targets for 2030:

 

• At least 40% cuts in greenhouse gas emissions (from 1990 levels)
• At least 32% share for renewable energy
• At least 32.5% improvement in energy efficiency

The framework was adopted by the European Council in October 2014. The targets for renewables and energy efficiency were revised upwards in 2018.

 

Greenhouse gas emissions – a cut of at least 40%

 

A binding target to cut emissions in the EU by at least 40% below 1990 levels by 2030.

 

This will enable the EU to move towards a climate-neutral economy and implement its commitments under the Paris Agreement.

 

To achieve the target:

 

• EU emissions trading system (ETS) sectors will have to cut emissions by 43% (compared to 2005) – to this end, the ETS has been revised for the period after 2020
• non-ETS sectors will need to cut emissions by 30% (compared to 2005) – this has been translated into individual binding targets for Member States.

As part of the European Green Deal, the Commission aims to propose raising the EU target to at least 50% and towards 55% in a responsible way.

 

To this end, the Commission invites all stakeholders to respond to the 12-week online public consultation, which seeks views on the EU’s 2030 climate ambition and on the necessary sectoral action and policy design. Contributions will feed into the Commission’s plan to revise the EU’s 2030 emission reduction target, due in September 2020.

 

Renewables – increasing to at least 32% share

 

A binding renewable energy target for the EU for 2030 of at least 32% of final energy consumption, including a review clause by 2023 for an upward revision of the EU level target.

 

The original target of at least 27% was revised upwards in 2018.

 

Energy efficiency – increasing by at least 32.5%

 

A headline target of at least 32.5% for energy efficiency to be achieved collectively by the EU in 2030, with an upward revision clause by 2023.

 

The original target of at least 27% was revised upwards in 2018.

 

Governance system

 

A transparent and dynamic governance process will help deliver on the 2030 climate and energy targets in an efficient and coherent manner.

 

The EU has adopted integrated monitoring and reporting rules to ensure progress towards its 2030 climate and energy targets and its international commitments under the Paris Agreement.

 

Based on the better regulation principles, the governance process involves consultations with citizens and stakeholders.

 

National energy and climate plans

 

Under the governance system, Member States are required to adopt integrated national energy and climate plans (NECPs) for the period 2021-2030. Member States had to submit their draft plans by the end of 2018 and final plans by the end of 2019.

 

National long-term strategies

 

Under the governance system, Member States are required to develop national long-term strategies and ensure consistency between these strategies and their NECPs.

 

Benefits

 

A joined-up approach for the period up to 2030 helps ensure regulatory certainty for investors and coordinate EU countries' efforts.

 

The framework helps drive progress towards a low-carbon economy and build an energy system that

 

• ensures affordable energy for all consumers,
• increases the security of the EU's energy supplies,
• reduces our dependence on energy imports,
• creates new opportunities for growth and jobs and
• brings environmental and health benefits – e.g. through reduced air pollution.