Press release - June 15, 2012
Brussels/Luxembourg - Energy ministers today recognised the need for substantially more renewable power and energy efficiency as the basis for Europe’s energy future, but fell short of a clear call for action. Poland alone did not support the agreement.
Discussing the European Commission's 2050 energy roadmap proposal during an energy council in Brussels, ministers formally recognised that three "no regrets" elements should be integral to Europe's long-term energy strategy - smart and flexible energy infrastructure; increased energy efficiency; a substantially higher share of renewables.
They called on the Commission to propose a policy framework for the period to 2030 based on these options. But a framework is not a firm enough basis to encourage strong energy investments, Greenpeace said.
Greenpeace EU energy policy director Frauke Thies said: "While some countries are still trying to give a lifeline to risky and dirty nuclear and fossil technologies, ministers could not help but conclude that renewables, efficiency and a flexible energy system are the three essential elements for a clean and secure energy supply for Europe. But instead of calling for ambitious 2030 targets in these areas, they only made a vague appeal for a policy framework."
"The longer the Polish government sticks to its current position, the longer its citizens and economy will miss out on the benefits of a clean and lean energy system," Thies added.
Ends
A briefing outlining how Poland's coal-dependence is not a given, but a result of misguided energy policies and neglected opportunities is available
here.
ContactsGreenpeace EU energy policy director Frauke Thies: +32 (0) 477 790 415
Greenpeace media officer Jack Hunter: +32 (0)476 988 584
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.