Press release - November 15, 2012
Brussels – Greenpeace cautiously welcomed a communication by the European Commission on the future of Europe’s energy market.
The communication highlights lack of implementation of existing legislation as one of the main obstacles to achieving the modernisation and integration of the European energy market by 2014, as agreed by EU governments. It also rightly identifies power grid interconnection and energy efficiency as crucial elements to address the problem of security of supply, said Greenpeace.
But Greenpeace warns that the communication has missed another opportunity to give a clear direction to a modernisation of the energy system based on renewable energy and energy efficiency, in line with European commitments to cut carbon emissions.
Greenpeace EU energy policy adviser Frederic Thoma said: "The Commission recognises some of the obstacles standing in the way of a modern, integrated energy market in Europe. But it is trying to back too many horses in a race that can only be won by green energy."
Energy ministers will discuss the Commission's communication at their next meeting in Brussels on 3 December.
Contacts:
Frédéric Thoma – Greenpeace EU energy policy adviser: +32 (0)486 401895, 
Greenpeace EU pressdesk: +32 (0)2 274 1911, 
This statement is also available on: www.greenpeace.eu
For breaking news and comment on EU affairs: www.twitter.com/GreenpeaceEU
Greenpeace is an independent global campaigning organisation that acts to change attitudes and behaviour, to protect and conserve the environment and to promote peace. Greenpeace does not accept donations from governments, the EU, businesses or political parties.
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