The European Commission tabled the updated 2030 climate target in September, saying a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions was “achievable” and “beneficial” for the EU economy. The European Parliament subsequently voted for a 60% target for greenhouse gas reductions by 2030. The political sensitivities around the target mean it will likely be decided by heads of government, meaning the target would need unanimous support from the 27 Member States.
A final agreement on the EU’s 2030 climate target is expected before the end of the year.
This significant increase in ambition requires a complete overhaul of the energy system, its infrastructure, and the respective EU policy framework, as mentioned in the EU strategies on hydrogen and energy system integration.
Industry stakeholders argue that a well-integrated energy system, building on the complementarity between electricity and gases, will deliver a sustainable decarbonisation path, both environmentally and economically, for the EU.