More environmentally friendly and affordable European energy policy

“Citizens as well as companies want to opt resolutely for change when it comes to energy policy.” MEP Anneleen Van Bossuyt is pleased with the energy goals that the European Parliament has approved. At the same time she advocates a cost-efficient approach. “We must combine ambition with a sense of realism. These investments will require many efforts in the short term, but must not be at the expense of our citizens and companies,” Anneleen Van Bossuyt says.

Less energy use

By 2030, the EU wants to be using 32.5% less energy than today. Efficiency and renewable sources of energy are key in this regard. “In the first place we must endeavour to achieve lower consumption. The less we use, the less we have to invest in new power stations or alternative sources. In specific terms that means more renovation of our existing buildings, more efficient industrial processes and making our mobility more environmentally friendly,” MEP Anneleen Van Bossuyt explains, after warning that a lower energy consumption must not be at the expense of our productivity.

Renewable sources

In addition, by 2030, 32% of energy generation must come from renewable sources. “It is a task that we must not take lightly. Building new facilities costs time and money. We need a European approach in this regard. In the future it will no longer be possible for the member states to supply 100% of their own energy generation themselves. Furthermore, renewable energy can be generated more cheaply and efficiently in certain member states. Think for example of solar energy in Spain or Greece. More and better cooperation among the member states will therefore be necessary. We will never meet our goals with 28 separate energy islands,” says Anneleen Van Bossuyt.

International responsibility

Finally, the MEP is of the opinion that other international players must also shoulder their responsibility. “We must not be naive. The EU is responsible for less than 10% of the worldwide emissions of greenhouse gases. If we impose sky-high targets on ourselves, companies will relocate to countries outside the EU where the emissions rules are less strict. With this balanced package of measures, Europe is clearly living up to its commitments to carry out the Paris Climate Agreement. But the rest of the world must now come forward with the same ambition,” Anneleen Van Bossuyt concludes.