Live

A Promising Shift in Climate Plans

The latest assessment from the European Commission reveals encouraging progress: EU countries are significantly improving their national strategies to meet the 2030 climate and energy targets. The revised National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) now reflect the true scale of the challenge ahead.

If all goes according to these updated plans, the EU is on track to reduce net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by nearly 54% by 2030 (compared to 1990 levels) and to achieve a 42.5% share of renewables in energy consumption—just shy of the official 55% reduction target set under the EU Climate Law.

In the face of recent geopolitical and economic shocks, this progress is not just impressive—it’s crucial. The green transition hasn’t slowed down; in fact, it’s picking up speed. Clean energy is now not only a climate necessity but a key to Europe’s industrial competitiveness, energy independence, and social security.

A Green Economy That Fuels Growth

According to EU Commissioner for Climate Action Wopke Hoekstra, Europe is on the right path. Since 1990, emissions have dropped by 37%, while the EU economy has grown by nearly 70%. In short, climate action and economic growth are no longer at odds.

Still, there’s no room for complacency. Every country and sector needs to contribute. Clean tech and innovation are no longer just buzzwords—they’re business opportunities and job creators, making Europe more resilient and future-proof.

Commissioner Teresa Ribera, who leads the just and competitive green transition, emphasizes that the updated NECPs are proof that science-based targets and smart policies deliver results. For her, the climate strategy isn’t just about cutting emissions—it’s about modernizing Europe, driving innovation, and creating better opportunities for people.

The next big goal? A 90% emissions reduction by 2040.

More Sun, Less Gas: Renewables on the Rise

Renewable energy is quickly becoming the dominant force in Europe’s power sector. As production from wind, solar, and other renewables grows, overall energy consumption is decreasing—a double win for the climate and the economy.

Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen says national plans show strong determination to ditch fossil fuels. But this isn’t just about saving the planet. It’s about creating jobs, cutting energy bills, and boosting economic stability.

Still, there’s more work ahead: improving energy savings and boosting efficiency will be essential. Europe can’t afford half-measures—especially when a truly integrated Energy Union is at stake.

Investments That Matter

Looking forward, the Commission will support these national efforts with two major initiatives:

These aim to fund industrial decarbonization and develop homegrown clean technologies. Beyond cutting emissions, they’re designed to stabilize and eventually lower energy prices.

But ambitious targets alone won’t cut it. The next phase is all about turning plans into real, impactful investments.

The EU will continue helping Member States—financially and strategically—by encouraging both public and private investment. Coordination and stability at the EU and regional levels will be key to building investor confidence and making the green transition a reality.

Gaps That Still Need Closing

Not all Member States have submitted their final plans. Belgium, Estonia, and Poland still owe the Commission their complete NECPs. Their targets were included in the general analysis, but individual assessments are pending until official submissions are made. Slovakia’s plan, submitted in April 2025, is still under review.

In total, the Commission’s review included 23 countries and provided tailored guidance in a detailed technical document. Going forward, the role of NECPs as key climate policy tools will be reassessed as part of a broader review of the Governance Regulation on Energy Union and Climate Action.

Eyes on the Horizon: 2050 and Beyond

While 2030 remains the immediate goal, the EU is already looking further ahead. The NECP review is a stepping stone toward defining the 2040 climate pathway, and ultimately, achieving full climate neutrality by 2050.

Reaching that vision will require even more ambition, innovation, and solidarity across the EU. But today’s progress proves that sustainable development can go hand-in-hand with modernization—and that bold climate policies can improve lives and protect the planet.

The momentum is here. Now it’s up to Europe to keep pushing forward.

Written by

Shape the conversation

Do you have anything to add to this story? Any ideas for interviews or angles we should explore? Let us know if you’d like to write a follow-up, a counterpoint, or share a similar story.

Write a counterargument article Write a related article