title: Commission Recommendation of 18 June 2019 on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Belgium covering the period 2021-2030

text:
               3.9.2019

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 297/1

      COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
      of 18 June 2019
      on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Belgium covering the period 2021-2030
      (2019/C 297/01)
      THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
      Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Article 9(2) thereof,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, each Member State is required to submit to the Commission a draft of its integrated national energy and climate plan covering the period from 2021 to 2030 in accordance with Article 3(1) and Annex I of that Regulation. The first drafts of integrated national energy and climate plans had to be submitted by 31 December 2018.

                  (2)

                  Belgium submitted its draft integrated national energy and climate plan on 31 December 2018. The submission of this draft plan represents the basis and first step of the iterative process between the Commission and Member States for the purpose of the finalisation of the integrated national energy and climate plans and their subsequent implementation.

                  (3)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, the Commission is required to assess the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission made a comprehensive assessment of the Belgian draft national energy and climate plan, taking into consideration the relevant elements of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. This assessment (2) is published alongside the present recommendation. The below recommendations are based on this assessment.

                  (4)

                  In particular, the Commission's recommendations may address (i) the level of ambition of objectives, targets and contributions with a view to collectively achieving the Energy Union objectives and, in particular, the Union's 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as the level of electricity interconnectivity that the Member State aims for in 2030; (ii) policies and measures relating to Member State- and Union-level objectives and other policies and measures of potential cross-border relevance; (iii) any additional policies and measures that might be required in the integrated national energy and climate plans; (iv) interactions between and consistency of existing and planned policies and measures included in the integrated national energy and climate plan within one dimension and among different dimensions of the Energy Union.

                  (5)

                  In developing its recommendations, the Commission considered, on the one hand, the need to add up certain quantified planned contributions of all Member States in order to assess the ambition at Union level, and, on the other hand, the need to provide adequate time for the Member State concerned to take due consideration of the Commission's recommendations before finalising its national plan.

                  (6)

                  The Commission's recommendations with regard to the Member States' renewable ambitions are based on a formula set out in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 which is based on objective criteria.

                  (7)

                  With regard to energy efficiency, the Commission's recommendations are based on the assessment of the national level of ambition put forward in the draft integrated national energy and climate plan, compared to the collective level of efforts needed to reach the Union's targets, taking into account the information provided on specific national circumstances, where relevant. The final national contributions in the area of energy efficiency should reflect the cost-effective potential for energy savings and be supported with a robust long-term building renovation strategy and measures to implement the energy savings obligation stemming from Article 7 Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (3). Member States should also demonstrate that they have properly taken into account the energy efficiency first principle, by explaining notably how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals of a competitive low-carbon economy, security of energy supply and to address energy poverty.

                  (8)

                  The Governance Regulation requires Member States to provide a general overview of the investment needed to achieve the objectives, targets and contributions set out in the integrated national energy and climate plan, as well as a general assessment on the sources of that investment. The national energy and climate plans should ensure the transparency and predictability of national policies and measures in order to ensure investment certainty.

                  (9)

                  In parallel, as part of the 2018-2019 European Semester cycle, the Commission has put a strong focus on Member States' energy and climate related investment needs. This is reflected in the 2019 Country Report for Belgium (4) and in the Commission's recommendation for a Council Recommendation to Belgium (5), as part of the European Semester process. The Commission took into account the latest European Semester findings and recommendations in its assessment of the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission's recommendations are complementary to the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester. Member States should also ensure that their integrated national energy and climate plans take into consideration the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester.

                  (10)

                  In addition, the Governance Regulation requires each Member State to take due account of any recommendations from the Commission to its draft integrated national energy and climate plan to be submitted by 31 December 2019 and, if the Member State concerned does not address a recommendation or a substantial part thereof, that Member State should provide and make public its reasons.

                  (11)

                  Where applicable, Member States should report the same data in their integrated national energy and climate plans and updates in later years as they report to Eurostat or the European Environment Agency. The use of the same source and, where available, of European statistics, is also essential to calculate the baseline for modelling and projections. Using European statistics will allow for a better comparability of the data and the projections used in the integrated national energy and climate plans.

                  (12)

                  All elements of Annex I of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 are to be included in the final integrated national energy and climate plan. In this context, the macroeconomic and, to the extent feasible, the health, environmental, employment and education, skills and social impacts of the planned policies and measures should be assessed. The public and other stakeholders are to be engaged in the preparation of the final integrated national energy and climate plan. These and other elements are described in detail in the accompanying staff working document (6).

                  (13)

                  Belgium notified a draft national energy and climate plan accompanied by a draft federal plan, four draft regional plans and a number of additional annexes. While supplementary documents can be annexed, the final NECP needs to contain all elements required by the regulation, including all information to assess the proposed ambition levels and the adequacy of the plan in achieving them, notably through a comprehensive overview of policies and measures and an accompanying impact assessment. Substantial effort and political willingness are needed to achieve a better integrated national energy and climate plan, which would in turn constitute a more useful tool to facilitate cooperation between the different responsible authorities in achieving the energy transition. Specific attention is needed to managing interlinkages between the decarbonisation and energy efficiency dimensions and the other dimensions, notably by presenting more concrete and quantifiable objectives related to energy security, internal market and research, innovation and competitiveness supporting the achievement of the decarbonisation, renewables and energy efficiency ambitions, and by explaining better how the energy efficiency first principle was taken into account.

                  (14)

                  The final integrated national energy and climate plan would benefit from presenting a comprehensive overview on competitiveness, not only of the energy-intensive industries, but also the low-carbon technology sector, providing a concrete analysis on the position in the global market, highlighting areas of competitive strengths and potential challenges, and pointing at measurable objectives for the future and policies and measures to achieve them, making appropriate links to enterprise and industrial policy. It would also benefit from a further integration of circular economy policies, emphasising their benefits in terms of greenhouse gas emissions reduction.

                  (15)

                  The Commission's recommendations to Belgium are underpinned by the assessment of Belgium's draft integrated national energy and climate plan which is published alongside this Recommendation (7),

            HEREBY RECOMMENDS BELGIUM TAKES ACTION TO:

                  1.

                  Complement the information on the policies and measures needed to achieve the greenhouse gas target for sectors not covered by the EU emissions trading system of - 35 % in 2030 compared to 2005, including in the building and transport sectors where most reductions will have to happen, by providing further details on their scope, timing, and the expected impacts. Specify the intended use of the flexibilities between the effort sharing, accounted land use, land use change and forestry and the emissions trading system sectors.

                  2.

                  Significantly raise the level of ambition for 2030 to at least 25 % as Belgium's contribution to the Union's 2030 target for renewable energy, as indicated by the formula in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. Include an indicative trajectory in the final integrated national energy and climate plan that reaches all the reference points pursuant to Article 4(a)(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 in accordance with that share, in view of the need to increase the level of efforts for reaching this target collectively. Indicate detailed and quantified policies and measures that are in line with the obligations laid down in Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council (8), to enable a timely and cost-effective achievement of this contribution. Furthermore, ensure that Belgium's renewable energy target for 2020 set in Annex I of Directive 2009/28/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (9) is fully met and maintained as a baseline from 2021 onwards, and explain how Belgium intends to meet and maintain such baseline share. Step up efforts in the heating and cooling sector to meet the indicative target included in Article 23 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001 and intensify efforts to increase and diversify renewables in the transport sector. Provide additional detail on the enabling frameworks for renewable self-consumption and renewable energy communities in line with Articles 21 and 22 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001, including simplification of administrative procedures.

                  3.

                  Increase the energy efficiency ambition by reducing final energy consumption, in view of the need to increase the level of efforts to reach the Union's 2030 energy efficiency target. Support this with policies and measures that would deliver additional energy savings by 2030. Underpin proposed policies and measures by an impact assessment and a more detailed set of information on the scale and implementation timeline in the period 2021-2030.

                  4.

                  Identify the measures supporting the energy security objectives on diversification and reduction of energy dependency, including measures ensuring flexibility. Take into account the regional context and the actual potential of the interconnectors and of the generation capacities in the neighbouring countries when assessing resource adequacy in the electricity sector.

                  5.

                  Further clarify national objectives and funding targets in research, innovation and competitiveness, specifically related to the Energy Union, to be achieved between now and 2030, so that they are readily measurable and fit for purpose to support the implementation of targets in the other dimensions of the integrated national energy and climate plan. Underpin such objectives with specific and adequate policies and measures, including those to be developed in cooperation with other Member States, such as the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan.

                  6.

                  Intensify the already excellent regional cooperation within the Pentalateral Energy Forum based notably on the political declaration of 4 March 2019 to specifically include the development and monitoring of the integrated national energy and climate plans in particular as regards relevant issues for cross-border cooperation.

                  7.

                  Improve the quantification of the mainly qualitative information on investment needs and complement it with a comprehensive assessment of overall investment needs to achieve the objectives. Provide a general assessment of the sources of investment, including appropriate financing at national, regional and Union level.

                  8.

                  List all energy subsidies, including in particular fossil fuels subsidies, and actions undertaken as well as plans to phase them out.

                  9.

                  Complement the analysis of the interactions with air quality and air emissions policy, including from a quantitative perspective.

                  10.

                  Better integrate just and fair transition aspects, notably by providing more details on social, employment and skills impacts of planned objectives, and policies and measures, including in carbon-intensive and industrial regions. Further develop the approach to addressing energy poverty issues, including by providing additional details on existing and potential measures, the energy-poverty plans and their expected impact, while at the same time completing the analysis as required by the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999.

         Done at Brussels, 18 June 2019.

               For the Commission

            Miguel ARIAS CAÑETE

               Member of the Commission

         (1)  OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1.

         (2)  SWD(2019) 211.

         (3)  Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on energy efficiency, amending Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU and repealing Directives 2004/8/EC and 2006/32/EC (OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 1).

         (4)  SWD (2019) 1000 final.

         (5)  COM (2019) 501 final of 5 June 2019.

         (6)  SWD(2019) 211.

         (7)  SWD(2019) 211.

         (8)  Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82).

         (9)  Directive 2009/28/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources and amending and subsequently repealing Directives 2001/77/EC and 2003/30/EC (OJ L 140, 5.6.2009, p. 16).


title: Commission Recommendation of 18 June 2019 on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Czechia covering the period 2021-2030

text:
               3.9.2019

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 297/9

      COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
      of 18 June 2019
      on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Czechia covering the period 2021-2030
      (2019/C 297/03)
      THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
      Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Article 9(2) thereof,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, each Member State is required to submit to the Commission a draft of its integrated national energy and climate plan covering the period from 2021 to 2030 in accordance with Article 3(1) and Annex I of that Regulation. The first drafts of integrated national energy and climate plans had to be submitted by 31 December 2018.

                  (2)

                  Czechia submitted its draft integrated national energy and climate plan on 31 January 2019. The submission of this draft plan represents the basis and first step of the iterative process between the Commission and Member States for the purpose of the finalisation of the integrated national energy and climate plans and their subsequent implementation.

                  (3)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, the Commission is required to assess the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission made a comprehensive assessment of the Czech draft national energy and climate plan, taking into consideration the relevant elements of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. This assessment (2) is published alongside the present recommendation. The below recommendations are based on this assessment. In particular, the Commission's recommendations may address (i) the level of ambition of objectives, targets and contributions with a view to collectively achieving the Energy Union objectives and, in particular, the Union's 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as the level of electricity interconnectivity that the Member State aims for in 2030; (ii) policies and measures relating to Member State- and Union-level objectives and other policies and measures of potential cross-border relevance; (iii) any additional policies and measures that might be required in the integrated national energy and climate plans; (iv) interactions between and consistency of existing and planned policies and measures included in the integrated national energy and climate plan within one dimension and among different dimensions of the Energy Union.

                  (4)

                  In developing its recommendations, the Commission considered, on the one hand, the need to add up certain quantified planned contributions of all Member States in order to assess the ambition at Union level, and, on the other hand, the need to provide adequate time for the Member State concerned to take due consideration of the Commission's recommendations before finalising its national plan.

                  (5)

                  The Commission's recommendations with regard to the Member States' renewable ambitions are based on a formula set out in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 which is based on objective criteria.

                  (6)

                  With regard to energy efficiency, the Commission's recommendations are based on the assessment of the national level of ambition put forward in the draft integrated national energy and climate plan, compared to the collective level of efforts needed to reach the Union's targets, taking into account the information provided on specific national circumstances, where relevant. The final national contributions in the area of energy efficiency should reflect the cost-effective potential for energy savings and be supported with a robust long-term building renovation strategy and measures to implement the energy savings obligation stemming from Article 7 Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (3). Member States should also demonstrate that they have properly taken into account the energy efficiency first principle, by explaining notably how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals of a competitive low-carbon economy, security of energy supply and to address energy poverty.

                  (7)

                  The Governance Regulation requires Member States to provide a general overview of the investment needed to achieve the objectives, targets and contributions set out in the integrated national energy and climate plan, as well as a general assessment on the sources of that investment. The national energy and climate plans should ensure the transparency and predictability of national policies and measures in order to ensure investment certainty.

                  (8)

                  In parallel, as part of the 2018-2019 European Semester cycle, the Commission has put a strong focus on Member States' energy and climate related investment needs. This is reflected in the 2019 Country Report for Czechia (4) and in the Commission's recommendation for a Council Recommendation to Czechia (5), as part of the European Semester process. The Commission took into account the latest European Semester findings and recommendations in its assessment of the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission's recommendations are complementary to the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester. Member States should also ensure that their integrated national energy and climate plans take into consideration the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester.

                  (9)

                  In addition, the Governance Regulation requires each Member State to take due account of any recommendations from the Commission to its draft integrated national energy and climate plan to be submitted by 31 December 2019 and, if the Member State concerned does not address a recommendation or a substantial part thereof, that Member State should provide and make public its reasons.

                  (10)

                  Where applicable, Member States should report the same data in their integrated national energy and climate plans and updates in later years as they report to Eurostat or the European Environment Agency. The use of the same source and, where available, of European statistics, is also essential to calculate the baseline for modelling and projections. Using European statistics will allow for a better comparability of the data and the projections used in the integrated national energy and climate plans.

                  (11)

                  All elements of Annex I of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 are to be included in the final integrated national energy and climate plan. In this context, the macroeconomic and, to the extent feasible, the health, environmental, employment and education, skills and social impacts of the planned policies and measures should be assessed. The public and other stakeholders are to be engaged in the preparation of the final integrated national energy and climate plan. These and other elements are described in detail in the staff working document published alongside this Recommendation (6).

                  (12)

                  The interlinkages between the Energy Union dimensions are visible in the draft plan, but not explicitly mentioned. In the final plan, Czechia should expand on the mentioned interlinkages between the different Energy Union dimensions by identifying synergies within the decarbonisation dimension, e.g. biofuels and land use, land use change and forestry. Synergies between decarbonisation, energy security and internal market dimensions also in relation with the energy efficiency first principle should also be further explored, by explaining how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals security of energy supply and to address energy poverty, including clear timeframes. An important element for further consideration in the final plan is the planning of a just transition in relation to coal and carbon-intensive regions. The impact of climate change risks on energy supply is another relevant consideration. Similarly, the objectives under the research, innovation and competitiveness dimension need to underpin the efforts planned for the other Energy Union dimensions.

                  (13)

                  The final integrated national energy and climate plan would benefit from presenting a comprehensive analysis on where the low-carbon technologies sector is currently positioned in the global market, highlighting areas of competitive strengths and potential challenges and pointing at measurable objectives for the future and policies and measures to achieve them, making appropriate links to enterprise and industrial policy. It could also benefit from a better interaction with the circular economy, emphasising its greenhouse gas emissions reduction potential.

                  (14)

                  The Commission's recommendations to Czechia are underpinned by the assessment of the Czechia's draft integrated national energy and climate plan which is published alongside this Recommendation (7),

            HEREBY RECOMMENDS CZECHIA TAKES ACTION TO:

                  1.

                  Increase the level of ambition for 2030 to a renewable energy share of at least 23 % as Czechia's contribution to the Union's 2030 target for renewable energy, as indicated by the formula in Annex II under Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. Include an indicative trajectory in the final plan that reaches all the reference points pursuant to Article 4(a)(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 in accordance with that share, in view of the need to increase the level of efforts for reaching this target collectively. Put forward detailed and quantified policies and measures that are in line with the obligations laid down in Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and Council (8), to enable a timely and cost-effective achievement of this contribution. Increase the level of ambition in the heating and cooling sector to meet the indicative target included in Article 23 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001 and put forward measures to meet the transport target set in Czechia's plan in line with Article 25 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001. Include measures to reduce administrative burden and related to the enabling frameworks for renewable self-consumption and renewable energy communities, in line with Articles 21 and 22 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001.

                  2.

                  Increase its ambition towards reducing primary energy consumption in view of the need to increase the level of efforts to reach the Union's 2030 energy efficiency target, and support it with policies and measures that would deliver additional energy savings by 2030. Better identify the policies and measures which are planned to be adopted in the period 2021-2030, also based on the assessment of their expected impacts.

                  3.

                  Include projections for the future energy mix, including renewable sources of gas, and planned measures in the area of resilience of the energy system, demand side measures, cybersecurity and critical infrastructure. Provide more detailed policies and measures aiming at increase of the diversification natural gas supply from third countries. In addition, specify the measures supporting the energy security objectives on diversification and reduction of energy dependency, including measures ensuring flexibility and the long-term supply of nuclear materials and fuel, particularly in view of the development of the nuclear generation capacity.

                  4.

                  Define forward-looking objectives and targets concerning market integration, in particular well defined new and planned measures. Set out the potential of renewable gases. Include in the final plan an overall assessment of existing and future measures related to the development of competition.

                  5.

                  Further clarify their national objectives and funding targets in research, innovation and competitiveness, specifically related to the Energy Union, to be achieved between now and 2030, so that they are readily measurable and fit for purpose to support the implementation of targets in the other dimensions of the integrated national energy and climate plan. Underpin such objectives with specific and adequate policies and measures, including those to be developed in cooperation with other Member States, such as the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan.

                  6.

                  Continue the already excellent approach to regional cooperation in the framework of the Visegrad Group involving Czechia, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia, as well as bilateral dialogues with other member States. Such cooperation could include topics such as further integration in the internal energy market, measures related to assessing system adequacy in light of the planned continuation of a capacity market, just transition, decarbonisation and further renewables deployment, including resulting impacts on the energy system and cross-border electricity trade.

                  7.

                  Extend its analysis of investment needs and sources, including appropriate financing at national, regional and Union level, which is currently provided for specific policies, to a general overview of investment needs to reach its energy and climate objectives. Consider also the cost-effective generation of transfers to other Member States under Regulation (EU) 2018/842 of the European Parliament and Council (9) as funding source.

                  8.

                  List all energy subsidies, including in particular fossil fuels subsidies, and actions undertaken as well as plans to phase them out.

                  9.

                  Complement the analysis of the interactions with air quality and air emissions policy, presenting and quantifying the impacts on air pollution for the various scenarios, providing underpinning information, and considering synergies and trade-off effects.

                  10.

                  Integrate just and fair transition aspects better, notably by providing more details on social, employment and skills impacts of planned objectives, policies and measures. The final integrated national energy and climate plan should particularly analyse the impact of the energy transition of the populations affected by the coal phase out or by adjustments in other energy-intensive sectors, and make a link to the Czech strategic framework, ReStart, promoting the just transition of the Czech coal regions. Further develop the approach to addressing energy poverty issues, including by specifying the assessment as required by the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999.

         Done at Brussels, 18 June 2019.

               For the Commission

            Miguel ARIAS CAÑETE

               Member of the Commission

         (1)  OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1.

         (2)  SWD(2019) 214.

         (3)  Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on energy efficiency, amending Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU and repealing Directives 2004/8/EC and 2006/32/EC (OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 1).

         (4)  SWD (2019) 1002 final.

         (5)  COM (2019) 503 final of 5 June 2019.

         (6)  SWD(2019) 214.

         (7)  SWD(2019) 214.

         (8)  Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82).

         (9)  Regulation (EU) 2018/842 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2018 on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by Member States from 2021 to 2030 contributing to climate action to meet commitments under the Paris Agreement and amending Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 (OJ L 156, 19.6.2018, p. 26).


title: Commission Recommendation of 18 June 2019 on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Denmark covering the period 2021-2030

text:
               3.9.2019

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 297/13

      COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
      of 18 June 2019
      on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Denmark covering the period 2021-2030
      (2019/C 297/04)
      THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
      Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 288 thereof,
      Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Article 9(2) thereof,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, each Member State is required to submit to the Commission a draft of its integrated national energy and climate plan covering the period from 2021 to 2030 in accordance with Article 3(1) and Annex I of that Regulation. The first drafts of integrated national energy and climate plans had to be submitted by 31 December 2018.

                  (2)

                  Denmark submitted its draft integrated national energy and climate plan on 21 December 2018. The submission of this draft plan represents the basis and first step of the iterative process between the Commission and Member States for the purpose of the finalisation of the integrated national energy and climate plans and their subsequent implementation.

                  (3)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, the Commission is required to assess the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission made a comprehensive assessment of the Danish draft national energy and climate plan, taking into consideration the relevant elements of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. This assessment is published (2) alongside the present recommendation. The below recommendations are based on this assessment.

                  (4)

                  In particular, the Commission's recommendations may address (i) the level of ambition of objectives, targets and contributions with a view to collectively achieving the Energy Union objectives and, in particular, the Union's 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as the level of electricity interconnectivity that the Member State aims for in 2030; (ii) policies and measures relating to Member State- and Union-level objectives and other policies and measures of potential cross-border relevance; (iii) any additional policies and measures that might be required in the integrated national energy and climate plans; (iv) interactions between and consistency of existing and planned policies and measures included in the integrated national energy and climate plan within one dimension and among different dimensions of the Energy Union.

                  (5)

                  In developing its recommendations, the Commission considered, on the one hand, the need to add up certain quantified planned contributions of all Member States in order to assess the ambition at Union level, and, on the other hand, the need to provide adequate time for the Member State concerned to take due consideration of the Commission's recommendations before finalising its integrated national energy and climate plan.

                  (6)

                  The Commission's recommendations with regard to the Member States' renewable ambitions are based on a formula set out in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 which is based on objective criteria.

                  (7)

                  With regard to energy efficiency, the Commission's recommendations are based on the assessment of the national level of ambition put forward in the draft integrated national energy and climate plan, compared to the collective level of efforts needed to reach the Union's targets, taking into account the information provided on specific national circumstances, where relevant. The final national contributions in the area of energy efficiency should reflect the cost-effective potential for energy savings and be supported with a robust long-term building renovation strategy and measures to implement the energy savings obligation stemming from Article 7 Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (3). Member States should also demonstrate that they have properly taken into account the energy efficiency first principle, by explaining notably how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals of a competitive low-carbon economy, security of energy supply and to address energy poverty.

                  (8)

                  The Governance Regulation requires Member States to provide a general overview of the investment needed to achieve the objectives, targets and contributions set out in the integrated national energy and climate plan, as well as a general assessment on the sources of that investment. The national energy and climate plans should ensure the transparency and predictability of national policies and measures in order to ensure investment certainty.

                  (9)

                  In parallel, as part of the 2018-2019 European Semester cycle, the Commission has put a strong focus on Member States' energy and climate related investment needs. This is reflected in the 2019 Country Report for Denmark (4) and in the Commission's recommendation for a Council Recommendation to Denmark (5), as part of the European Semester process. The Commission took into account the latest European Semester findings and recommendations in its assessment of the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission's recommendations are complementary to the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester. Member States should also ensure that their integrated national energy and climate plans take into consideration the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester.

                  (10)

                  In addition, the Governance Regulation requires each Member State to take due account of any recommendations from the Commission to its draft integrated national energy and climate plan to be submitted by 31 December 2019 and, if the Member State concerned does not address a recommendation or a substantial part thereof, that Member State should provide and make public its reasons.

                  (11)

                  Where applicable, Member States should report the same data in their integrated national energy and climate plans and updates in later years as they report to Eurostat or the European Environment Agency. The use of the same source and, where available, of European statistics, is also essential to calculate the baseline for modelling and projections. Using European statistics will allow for a better comparability of the data and the projections used in the integrated national energy and climate plans.

                  (12)

                  All elements of Annex I of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 are to be included in the final integrated national energy and climate plan. In this context, the macroeconomic and, to the extent feasible, the health, environmental, employment and education, skills and social impacts of the planned policies and measures should be assessed. The public and other stakeholders are to be engaged in the preparation of the final integrated national energy and climate plan. These and other elements are described in detail in the staff working document published alongside this Recommendation (6).

                  (13)

                  In the final plan, Denmark should take into account the synergies between the five dimensions of the Energy Union and the energy efficiency first principle, including by explaining how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals of a competitive low-carbon economy, security of energy supply and to address energy poverty. Additional information on specific objectives with regards to demand response, aggregation, system flexibility, smart grids, storage, distributed generation, consumer protection and competitiveness in the retail energy sector are also important elements to be addressed in the final plan in view of ensuring a managed implementation of the objective of 100 % renewable electricity by 2030. It is important that the complete final plan includes a detailed description of all energy subsidies as well as of the national policies, measures and timelines to phase them out, particularly for fossil fuels. Information on how climate change risks might affect energy supply would also improve the plan. The objectives under the research, innovation and competitiveness dimension need to underpin the efforts planned for the other Energy Union dimensions.

                  (14)

                  The final integrated national energy and climate plan would benefit from presenting an even more comprehensive analysis on where the low-carbon technologies sector, including for decarbonising energy and carbon-intensive industrial sectors, is currently positioned in the global market. Building on the export strategy of energy technologies, measurable objectives for the future could be included in the final plan, together with policies and measures to achieve them. The final integrated national energy and climate plan could also emphasise the greenhouse gas emissions savings stemming from ambitious actions related to the circular economy.

                  (15)

                  The Commission's recommendations to Denmark are underpinned by the assessment of Denmark's draft integrated national energy and climate plan which is published alongside this Recommendation (7),

            HEREBY RECOMMENDS DENMARK TAKES ACTION TO:

                  1.

                  Clarify how it intends to reach its 2030 greenhouse gas target for emissions not covered by the EU emissions trading system of - 39 % compared to 2005, including putting into place further cost-efficient policies in the building sector and further defining its planned transport policies, and specifying its intended use of the flexibilities between the effort sharing, land use, land use change and forestry and emissions trading system sectors.

                  2.

                  Underpin the welcomed level of ambition of a 55 % renewable energy share for 2030 as Denmark's contribution to the Union 2030 target for renewable energy with detailed and quantified policies and measures that are in line with the obligations of Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and Council (8), to enable a timely and cost-effective achievement of this contribution. Clarify among others, the level of the indicative trajectory that reaches all the reference points pursuant to Article 4(a)(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. Furthermore, put forward trajectories and corresponding measures in the transport sector to meet the transport target pursuant to Article 25 of the Directive (EU) 2018/2001. Provide additional details on the specific measures to ensure sustainability for biomass supply and use in the energy sector, given the important contribution of biomass across the Danish energy mix.

                  3.

                  Substantially increase its ambition towards reducing both final and primary energy consumption in 2030 in view of the need to increase the level of efforts to reach the Union's 2030 energy efficiency target. Propose more ambitious policies and measures that would compensate for the likely effects of substantially lowered funding levels for energy efficiency and for the agreed energy tax decreases, and that would deliver additional energy savings by 2030. Include new measures designed to, and capable of delivering the energy savings required under Article 7 of Directive 2012/27/EU. This is particularly important in the light of Denmark's decision to discontinue its existing energy efficiency obligation scheme which would lower the funding available for final energy savings actions. Provide more clarity on the actual measures capable of delivering on the ambitions as regards cleaner and more efficient transport and vehicles.

                  4.

                  Define clear, measureable and forward-looking objectives concerning market integration.

                  5.

                  Further elaborate on the national objectives and funding targets in research, innovation and competitiveness, specifically related to the Energy Union, to be achieved between now and 2030, so that they are readily measurable and fit for purpose to support the implementation of targets in the other dimensions of the integrated national energy and climate plan. Underpin such objectives with specific and adequate policies and measures, including those to be developed in cooperation with other Member States, such as the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan.

                  6.

                  Expand the already good regional cooperation arrangements, in particular with the other Nordic (Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden) and Baltic (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) countries to other cooperation mechanisms. Possible areas for enhanced cooperation in renewable energy include planned statistical transfers or hybrid renewable projects, where offshore wind electricity is connected to more than one market. In research and innovation these include alignment of research programmes, coordinated funding, and identification of synergies with other Member States and with Union's programmes and initiatives.

                  7.

                  Extend the provided analysis of investment needs by estimating public and private investment needs of the planned policies to achieve the climate and energy objectives up to 2030 and indicating the likely sources to finance them.

                  8.

                  List all energy subsidies, including in particular fossil fuels subsidies, and actions undertaken as well as plans to phase them out.

                  9.

                  Complement the welcome integration of climate mitigation and air pollution policies with more quantitative information, at least including the required information about the projected air pollutants emissions under the planned policies and measures.

                  10.

                  Integrate just and fair transition aspects better, notably by providing more details on social, employment and skills impacts of planned objectives, policies and measures.

         Done at Brussels, 18 June 2019.

               For the Commission

            Miguel ARIAS CAÑETE

               Member of the Commission

         (1)  OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1.

         (2)  SWD(2019) 275.

         (3)  Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on energy efficiency, amending Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU and repealing Directives 2004/8/EC and 2006/32/EC (OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 1).

         (4)  SWD (2019) 1003 final.

         (5)  COM (2019) 504 final of 5 June 2019.

         (6)  SWD(2019) 275.

         (7)  SWD(2019) 275.

         (8)  Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82).


title: Commission Recommendation of 18 June 2019 on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Germany covering the period 2021-2030

text:
               3.9.2019

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 297/17

      COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
      of 18 June 2019
      on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Germany covering the period 2021-2030
      (2019/C 297/05)
      THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
      Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Article 9(2) thereof,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, each Member State is required to submit to the Commission a draft of its integrated national energy and climate plan covering the period from 2021 to 2030 in accordance with Article 3(1) and Annex I of that Regulation. The first drafts of integrated national energy and climate plans had to be submitted by 31 December 2018.

                  (2)

                  Germany submitted its draft integrated national energy and climate plan on 20 December 2018. The submission of this draft plan represents the basis and first step of the iterative process between the Commission and Member States for the purpose of the finalisation of the integrated national energy and climate plans and their subsequent implementation.

                  (3)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, the Commission is required to assess the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission made a comprehensive assessment of the German draft integrated national energy and climate plan, taking into consideration the relevant elements of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. This assessment (2) is published alongside the present recommendation. The below recommendations are based on that assessment.

                  (4)

                  In particular, the Commission's recommendations may address (i) the level of ambition of objectives, targets and contributions with a view to collectively achieving the Energy Union objectives and, in particular, the Union's 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as the level of electricity interconnectivity that the Member State aims for in 2030; (ii) policies and measures relating to Member State- and Union-level objectives and other policies and measures of potential cross-border relevance; (iii) any additional policies and measures that might be required in the integrated national energy and climate plans; (iv) interactions between and consistency of existing and planned policies and measures included in the integrated national energy and climate plan within one dimension and among different dimensions of the Energy Union.

                  (5)

                  In developing its recommendations, the Commission considered, on the one hand, the need to add up certain quantified planned contributions of all Member States in order to assess the ambition at Union level, and, on the other hand, the need to provide adequate time for the Member State concerned to take due consideration of the Commission's recommendations before finalising its national integrated national energy and climate plan.

                  (6)

                  The Commission's recommendations with regard to the Member States' renewable ambitions are based on a formula set out in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 which is based on objective criteria.

                  (7)

                  With regard to energy efficiency, the Commission's recommendations are based on the assessment of the national level of ambition put forward in the draft integrated national energy and climate plan, compared to the collective level of efforts needed to reach the Union's targets, taking into account the information provided on specific national circumstances, where relevant. The final national contributions in the area of energy efficiency should reflect the cost-effective potential for energy savings and be supported with a robust long-term building renovation strategy and measures to implement the energy savings obligation stemming from Article 7 Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (3). Member States should also demonstrate that they have properly taken into account the energy efficiency first principle, by explaining notably how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals of a competitive low-carbon economy, security of energy supply and to address energy poverty.

                  (8)

                  The Governance Regulation requires Member States to provide a general overview of the investment needed to achieve the objectives, targets and contributions set out in the integrated national energy and climate plan, as well as a general assessment on the sources of that investment. The national energy and climate plans should ensure the transparency and predictability of national policies and measures in order to ensure investment certainty.

                  (9)

                  In parallel, as part of the 2018-2019 European Semester cycle, the Commission has put a strong focus on Member States' energy and climate related investment needs. This is reflected in the 2019 Country Report for Germany (4) and in the Commission's recommendation for a Council Recommendation to Germany (5), as part of the European Semester process. The Commission took into account the latest European Semester findings and recommendations in its assessment of the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission's recommendations are complementary to the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester. Member States should also ensure that their integrated national energy and climate plans take into consideration the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester.

                  (10)

                  In addition, the Governance Regulation requires each Member State to take due account of any recommendations from the Commission to its draft integrated national energy and climate plan to be submitted by 31 December 2019 and, if the Member State concerned does not address a recommendation or a substantial part thereof, that Member State should provide and make public its reasons.

                  (11)

                  Where applicable, Member States should report the same data in their integrated national energy and climate plans and updates in later years as they report to Eurostat or the European Environment Agency. The use of the same source and, where available, of European statistics, is also essential to calculate the baseline for modelling and projections. Using European statistics will allow for a better comparability of the data and the projections used in the integrated national energy and climate plans.

                  (12)

                  All elements of Annex I of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 are to be included in the final integrated national energy and climate plan. In this context, the macroeconomic and, to the extent feasible, the health, environmental, employment and education, skills and social impacts of the planned policies and measures should be assessed. The public and other stakeholders are to be engaged in the preparation of the final integrated national energy and climate plan. These and other elements are described in detail in the staff working document published alongside this Recommendation (6).

                  (13)

                  Considering the overall good set-up of national targets in energy and climate policy outlined in the draft plan, the final plan could specify the main interactions between these targets both in terms of national ambition levels and in terms of provisional, planned, additional and existing policy instruments. Elaborating further on sector coupling and on the related incentive structure across different sectors of the economy would allow addressing the consistency of policies and measures within and between Energy Union dimensions more comprehensively. In that context, consideration could be given to identifying investment needs in all Energy Union dimensions, preventing sudden impacts of shifting prices by ensuring a gradual phase out of energy subsidies with long term visibility and to measures mitigating the impact on vulnerable consumers through energy poverty measures. A comprehensive impact assessment could help addressing policy interactions, e.g. by quantifying the impact on accounted emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry of a sustainable supply of biomass for energy purposes, including risks for energy security due to climate change. A quantitative overview in the final plan of the development of different sources of flexibility required to integrate the rising share of renewable energy in the electricity system could help to address additional interactions between Energy Union dimensions. Information on how the energy efficiency first principle is taken into account in national policies and measures across various Energy Union dimensions could be included more comprehensively.

                  (14)

                  An additional element deserving increased attention is industry competitiveness and the areas of Germany's competitive strengths and potential challenges in its energy transition. Measurable objectives for the future would be beneficial, together with policies and measures to achieve them, making appropriate links to enterprise, industrial and education policy. The final integrated national energy and climate plan would benefit from a better interaction with the circular economy, emphasising its greenhouse gas emissions reduction potential.

                  (15)

                  The Commission's recommendations to Germany are underpinned by the assessment of Germany's draft integrated national energy and climate plan which is published alongside this Recommendation (7).

            HEREBY RECOMMENDS GERMANY TAKES ACTION TO:

                  1.

                  Specify cost-efficient additional policies and measures, notably in the building, transport and agriculture sectors, to address the significant projected gap to its greenhouse gas target for sectors not covered by the EU emissions trading system for 2030 of -38 % compared to 2005.

                  2.

                  Provide detailed and quantified policies and measures; in line with the obligations laid down in Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and Council (8), to enable a timely and cost-effective achievement of the German contribution of 30 % renewable energy share to the Union's renewable energy target for 2030. Put forward trajectories and provide specific measures to meet the transport target pursuant to Article 25 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001. Provide additional details on the enabling frameworks for renewable self-consumption and renewable energy communities, in line with Articles 21 and 22 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001, including simplification of administrative procedures.

                  3.

                  Provide a sufficiently ambitious national contribution for both primary and final energy consumption, which takes into account the need to increase, collectively, the level of efforts necessary to reach the Union's 2030 target, and to support the national contribution with policies and measures at a scale adequate to deliver the corresponding energy savings. Clearly identify policies which are planned to be adopted and implemented in the period from 2021 to 2030, their expected impacts as well as their timeline for implementation and budgetary requirements.

                  4.

                  Specify the measures supporting the energy security objectives on diversification and reduction of energy dependency, including measures ensuring flexibility, as well as information on phase-out from nuclear.

                  5.

                  Define forward-looking objectives and targets concerning market integration, in particular measures to reinforce market signals and to improve the effective impact of market components in the electricity price. Include a timetable with appropriate measures to remove structural congestion in the electricity system and to provide efficient dispatch and locational signals to the market as an important element of the final integrated national energy and climate plan, notably as a basis for further cooperation and coordination with other Member States and in view of the functioning of the internal energy market.

                  6.

                  Further clarify national objectives and funding targets in research, innovation and competitiveness, specifically related to the Energy Union, to be achieved between 2022 and 2030, so that they are readily measurable and fit for purpose to support the implementation of targets in the other dimensions of the final integrated national energy and climate plan. Underpin such objectives with specific and adequate policies and measures, including those to be developed in cooperation with other Member States, such as the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan.

                  7.

                  Continue, both in the finalisation of the integrated national energy and climate plan and during its implementation, regional cooperation in respective high-level groups and consultation of neighbouring Member States. In that context, focus on the coal and lignite phase-out, renewables deployment and the internal energy market, addressing issues such as interconnection levels and capacity from 2021 onwards, regional cooperation measures related to assessing system adequacy, just transition and energy system changes required for accommodating higher shares of renewables that are expected to modify cross-border electricity trade while enhancing the need for system flexibility.

                  8.

                  Extend its analysis of investment needs provided for electricity transmission infrastructure to a general overview of investment needs to reach its energy and climate objectives. Provide a general assessment of the sources of that investment, including appropriate financing at national, regional and Union level.

                  9.

                  List all energy subsidies, including in particular fossil fuels subsidies, and actions undertaken as well as plans to phase them out.

                  10.

                  Complement the analysis of the interactions with air quality and air emissions policy, presenting and quantifying the impacts on air pollution for the various scenarios, providing underpinning information, and considering synergies and trade-off effects.

                  11.

                  Integrate just and fair transition aspects, notably by providing more details on socioeconomic impacts of the energy transition and the planned coal phase out or of adjustments in other carbon-intensive sectors. Describe the associated social, employment and skills impacts of planned objectives, policies and measures. Further develop the approach to addressing energy poverty issues, including by providing a dedicated assessment of energy poverty as required by the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999.

         Done at Brussels, 18 June 2019.

               For the Commission

            Miguel ARIAS CAÑETE

               Member of the Commission

         (1)  OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1.

         (2)  SWD(2019) 229.

         (3)  Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on energy efficiency, amending Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU and repealing Directives 2004/8/EC and 2006/32/EC (OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 1).

         (4)  SWD(2019) 1004 final.

         (5)  COM(2019) 505 final of 5 June 2019.

         (6)  SWD(2019) 229.

         (7)  SWD(2019) 229.

         (8)  Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82).


title: Commission Recommendation of 18 June 2019 on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Ireland covering the period 2021-2030

text:
               3.9.2019

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 297/25

      COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
      of 18 June 2019
      on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Ireland covering the period 2021-2030
      (2019/C 297/07)
      THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
      Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Article 9(2) thereof,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, each Member State is required to submit to the Commission a draft of its integrated national energy and climate plan covering the period from 2021 to 2030 in accordance with Article 3(1) and Annex I of that Regulation. The first drafts of integrated national energy and climate plans had to be submitted by 31 December 2018.

                  (2)

                  Ireland submitted its draft integrated national energy and climate plan on 21 December 2018. The submission of this draft plan represents the basis and first step of the iterative process between the Commission and Member States for the purpose of the finalisation of the integrated national energy and climate plans and their subsequent implementation.

                  (3)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, the Commission is required to assess the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission made a comprehensive assessment of the Irish draft integrated national energy and climate plan, taking into consideration the relevant elements of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. This assessment (2) is published alongside the present recommendation. The below recommendations are based on that assessment.

                  (4)

                  In particular, the Commission's recommendations may address (i) the level of ambition of objectives, targets and contributions with a view to collectively achieving the Energy Union objectives and, in particular, the Union's 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as the level of electricity interconnectivity that the Member State aims for in 2030; (ii) policies and measures relating to Member State- and Union-level objectives and other policies and measures of potential cross-border relevance; (iii) any additional policies and measures that might be required in the integrated national energy and climate plans; (iv) interactions between and consistency of existing and planned policies and measures included in the integrated national energy and climate plan within one dimension and among different dimensions of the Energy Union.

                  (5)

                  In developing its recommendations, the Commission considered, on the one hand, the need to add up certain quantified planned contributions of all Member States in order to assess the ambition at Union level, and, on the other hand, the need to provide adequate time for the Member State concerned to take due consideration of the Commission's recommendations before finalising its integrated national energy and climate plan.

                  (6)

                  The Commission's recommendations with regard to the Member States' renewable ambitions are based on a formula set out in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 which is based on objective criteria.

                  (7)

                  With regard to energy efficiency, the Commission's recommendations are based on the assessment of the national level of ambition put forward in the draft integrated national energy and climate plan, compared to the collective level of efforts needed to reach the Union's targets, taking into account the information provided on specific national circumstances, where relevant. The final national contributions in the area of energy efficiency should reflect the cost-effective potential for energy savings and be supported with a robust long-term building renovation strategy and measures to implement the energy savings obligation stemming from Article 7 Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (3). Member States should also demonstrate that they have properly taken into account the energy efficiency first principle, by explaining notably how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals of a competitive low-carbon economy, security of energy supply and to address energy poverty.

                  (8)

                  The Governance Regulation requires Member States to provide a general overview of the investment needed to achieve the objectives, targets and contributions set out in the integrated national energy and climate plan, as well as a general assessment on the sources of that investment. The national energy and climate plans should ensure the transparency and predictability of national policies and measures in order to ensure investment certainty.

                  (9)

                  In parallel, as part of the 2018-2019 European Semester cycle, the Commission has put a strong focus on Member States' energy and climate related investment needs. This is reflected in the 2019 Country Report for Ireland (4) and in the Commission's recommendation for a Council Recommendation to Ireland (5), as part of the European Semester process. The Commission took into account the latest European Semester findings and recommendations in its assessment of the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission's recommendations are complementary to the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester. Member States should also ensure that their integrated national energy and climate plans take into consideration the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester.

                  (10)

                  In addition, the Governance Regulation requires each Member State to take due account of any recommendations from the Commission to its draft integrated national energy and climate plan to be submitted by 31 December 2019 and, if the Member State concerned does not address a recommendation or a substantial part thereof, that Member State should provide and make public its reasons.

                  (11)

                  Where applicable, Member States should report the same data in their integrated national energy and climate plans and updates in later years as they report to Eurostat or the European Environment Agency. The use of the same source and, where available, of European statistics, is also essential to calculate the baseline for modelling and projections. Using European statistics will allow for a better comparability of the data and the projections used in the integrated national energy and climate plans.

                  (12)

                  All elements of Annex I of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 are to be included in the final integrated national energy and climate plan. In this context, the macroeconomic and, to the extent feasible, the health, environmental, employment and education, skills and social impacts of the planned policies and measures should be assessed. The public and other stakeholders are to be engaged in the preparation of the final integrated national energy and climate plan. These and other elements are described in detail in the staff working document published alongside this Recommendation (6).

                  (13)

                  In the final plan, Ireland should build on the draft plan's considerations of policy interactions by elaborating on the synergies between the decarbonisation, energy security and internal energy market dimensions. One such issue is the impact of the planned coal phase-out and increasing levels of renewable energy on energy security and electricity system generation adequacy. Another issue to elaborate is the compatibility of the planned increase in biomass use with the plan to increase removals from land use, land use change and forestry. The consideration of the energy efficiency first principle in setting criteria for renewables support eligibility and in proposing policies in the energy security and internal energy market dimensions is another important element to be addressed in the final plan. Similarly, the objectives under the research, innovation and competitiveness dimension need to underpin the efforts planned for the other Energy Union dimensions.

                  (14)

                  The final integrated national energy and climate plan would benefit from presenting a comprehensive analysis on where the low-carbon technologies sector is currently positioned in the global market, highlighting areas of competitive strengths and potential challenges and pointing at measurable objectives for the future and policies and measures to achieve them, making appropriate links to enterprise and industrial policy. It could also benefit from consideration of the role of circular economy, referring to national strategies and action plans and raising their benefits and potential trade-offs in terms of greenhouse gas emission reduction.

                  (15)

                  The Commission's recommendations to Ireland are underpinned by the assessment of Ireland's draft integrated national energy and climate plan which is published alongside this Recommendation (7),

            HEREBY RECOMMENDS IRELAND TAKES ACTION TO:

                  1.

                  Put forward additional measures, notably in the building and transport sectors, to cost-effectively reduce the significant projected gap to its 2030 greenhouse gas target for sectors not covered by the EU emissions trading system of -30 % compared to 2005.

                  2.

                  Put forward, as Ireland's contribution to the Union's 2030 target for renewable energy, a share of renewable energy of at least 31 % as indicated by the formula in Annex II under Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. Include an indicative trajectory in the final integrated national energy and climate plan that reaches all the reference points pursuant to Article 4(a)(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 in accordance with that share, in view of the need to increase the level of efforts for reaching this target collectively. Put forward detailed and quantified policies and measures that are in line with the obligations laid down in Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and Council (8), to enable a timely and cost-effective achievement of this contribution. Ensure that the renewable energy target for 2020 set in Annex I of Directive 2009/28/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (9) is fully met and maintained as a baseline from 2021 onwards, and explain how it intends to meet and maintain such baseline share. Put forward trajectories and corresponding measures in the heating and cooling sector and the transport sector to meet the indicative target included in Article 23 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001 and the transport target in Article 25 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001. Put in place measures to overcome administrative burden and detailed information on measures on the enabling frameworks for renewable self-consumption and renewable energy communities, in line with Articles 21 and 22 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001.

                  3.

                  Substantially increase its energy efficiency ambition by lowering the level of both final and primary energy consumption in absolute terms in view of the need to increase the level of efforts to reach the Union's 2030 energy efficiency target. Support this with policies and measures that would deliver additional energy savings by 2030. Express the final contribution as a specific value for both primary and final energy consumption. Detail the underlying methodology to estimate energy savings. An indication of required investments to implement energy efficiency policies is also needed.

                  4.

                  Specify the measures supporting the energy security objectives on diversification and reduction of energy dependency in particular in the gas and oil sector in light of uncertainties related to the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union.

                  5.

                  Further elaborate on the national objectives and funding targets research, innovation and competitiveness, specifically related to the Energy Union, to be achieved between now and 2030, so that they are readily measurable and fit for purpose to support the implementation of targets in the other dimensions of the its integrated national energy and climate plan. Underpin such objectives with specific and adequate policies and measures, including those to be developed in cooperation with other Member States, such as the Strategic Energy Technology Plan.

                  6.

                  Build on the framework of the North Seas Energy Cooperation and the Clean Energy for EU Islands Initiative in order to deliver on the renewables target and ensure timely implementation of ongoing interconnection projects. In light of the United Kingdom's decision to leave the European Union, provide for measures to ensure continued regional cooperation with the UK on emergency preparedness and response for electricity, and security of supply for gas and oil.

                  7.

                  List actions undertaken and plans to phase-out energy subsidies, in particular for fossil fuels.

                  8.

                  Present the impacts on air pollution for the various scenarios, providing underpinning information, and considering synergies and trade-off effects.

                  9.

                  Integrate just and fair transition aspects better, notably by providing more details on social, employment and skills impacts of planned policies and measures. The final plan should particularly address the impact of the transition on the populations living in carbon-intensive regions. Complement the approach to addressing energy poverty issues with indicative objectives for reducing energy poverty as required by the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999.

         Done at Brussels, 18 June 2019.

               For the Commission

            Miguel ARIAS CAÑETE

               Member of the Commission

         (1)  OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1.

         (2)  SWD(2019) 230.

         (3)  Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on energy efficiency, amending Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU and repealing Directives 2004/8/EC and 2006/32/EC (OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 1).

         (4)  SWD (2019) 1006 final.

         (5)  COM (2019) 507 final of 5 June 2019.

         (6)  SWD(2019) 230.

         (7)  SWD(2019) 230.

         (8)  Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82).

         (9)  Directive 2009/28/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources and amending and subsequently repealing Directives 2001/77/EC and 2003/30/EC (OJ L 140, 5.6.2009, p. 16).


title: Commission Recommendation of 18 June 2019 on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Greece covering the period 2021-2030

text:
               3.9.2019

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 297/29

      COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
      of 18 June 2019
      on the draft integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of Greece covering the period 2021-2030
      (2019/C 297/08)
      THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
      Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Article 9(2) thereof,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, each Member State is required to submit to the Commission a draft of its integrated national energy and climate plan covering the period from 2021 to 2030 in accordance with Article 3(1) and Annex I of that Regulation. The first drafts of integrated national energy and climate plans had to be submitted by 31 December 2018.

                  (2)

                  Greece submitted its draft integrated national energy and climate plan on 25 January 2019. The submission of this draft plan represents the basis and first step of the iterative process between the Commission and Member States for the purpose of the finalisation of the integrated national energy and climate plans and their subsequent implementation.

                  (3)

                  Pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, the Commission is required to assess the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission made a comprehensive assessment of the Greek draft integrated national energy and climate plan, taking into consideration the relevant elements of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999. This assessment (2) is published alongside the present recommendation. The below recommendations are based on that assessment.

                  (4)

                  In particular, the Commission's recommendations may address (i) the level of ambition of objectives, targets and contributions with a view to collectively achieving the Energy Union objectives and, in particular, the Union's 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as the level of electricity interconnectivity that the Member State aims for in 2030; (ii) policies and measures relating to Member State- and Union-level objectives and other policies and measures of potential cross-border relevance; (iii) any additional policies and measures that might be required in the integrated national energy and climate plans; (iv) interactions between and consistency of existing and planned policies and measures included in the integrated national energy and climate plan within one dimension and among different dimensions of the Energy Union.

                  (5)

                  In developing its recommendations, the Commission considered, on the one hand, the need to add up certain quantified planned contributions of all Member States in order to assess the ambition at Union level, and, on the other hand, the need to provide adequate time for the Member State concerned to take due consideration of the Commission's recommendations before finalising its integrated national energy and climate plan.

                  (6)

                  The Commission's recommendations with regard to the Member States' renewable ambitions are based on a formula set out in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 which is based on objective criteria.

                  (7)

                  With regard to energy efficiency, the Commission's recommendations are based on the assessment of the national level of ambition put forward in the draft integrated national energy and climate plan, compared to the collective level of efforts needed to reach the Union's targets, taking into account the information provided on specific national circumstances, where relevant. The final national contributions in the area of energy efficiency should reflect the cost-effective potential for energy savings and be supported with a robust long-term building renovation strategy and measures to implement the energy savings obligation stemming from Article 7 Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (3). Member States should also demonstrate that they have properly taken into account the energy efficiency first principle, by explaining notably how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals of a competitive low-carbon economy, security of energy supply and to address energy poverty.

                  (8)

                  The Governance Regulation requires Member States to provide a general overview of the investment needed to achieve the objectives, targets and contributions set out in the integrated national energy and climate plan, as well as a general assessment on the sources of that investment. The national energy and climate plans should ensure the transparency and predictability of national policies and measures in order to ensure investment certainty.

                  (9)

                  In parallel, as part of the 2018-2019 European Semester cycle, the Commission has put a strong focus on Member States' energy and climate related investment needs. This is reflected in the 2019 Country Report for Greece (4) and in the Commission's recommendation for a Council Recommendation to Greece (5), as part of the European Semester process. The Commission took into account the latest European Semester findings and recommendations in its assessment of the draft integrated national energy and climate plans. The Commission's recommendations are complementary to the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester. Member States should also ensure that their integrated national energy and climate plans take into consideration the latest country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester.

                  (10)

                  In addition, the Governance Regulation requires each Member State to take due account of any recommendations from the Commission to its draft integrated national energy and climate plan to be submitted by 31 December 2019 and, if the Member State concerned does not address a recommendation or a substantial part thereof, that Member State should provide and make public its reasons.

                  (11)

                  Where applicable, Member States should report the same data in their integrated national energy and climate plans and updates in later years as they report to Eurostat or the European Environment Agency. The use of the same source and, where available, of European statistics, is also essential to calculate the baseline for modelling and projections. Using European statistics will allow for a better comparability of the data and the projections used in the integrated national energy and climate plans.

                  (12)

                  All elements of Annex I of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 are to be included in the final integrated national energy and climate plan. In this context, the macroeconomic and, to the extent feasible, the health, environmental, employment and education, skills and social impacts of the planned policies and measures should be assessed. The public and other stakeholders are to be engaged in the preparation of the final integrated national energy and climate plan. These and other elements are described in detail in the staff working document published alongside this Recommendation (6).

                  (13)

                  In the final plan Greece should build on the positive interlinkages between planned policies and measures pointed out in the draft plan, and further explore the more challenging policy interlinkages. One such interlinkage is the synergies within the decarbonisation dimension, e.g. the impact accounted emissions and removals in the land use, land use change and forestry sector of planned bioenergy policies. Another interlinkage is the synergies between the decarbonisation, energy security and internal market dimensions with the energy efficiency first principle, e.g. by explaining how energy efficiency contributes to the cost-effective delivery of the national goals of a competitive low-carbon economy and security of energy supply. Energy efficiency could also be considered with regards to the alleviation of energy poverty. The objectives under the research, innovation and competitiveness dimension need to underpin the efforts planned for the other Energy Union dimensions.

                  (14)

                  The final integrated national energy and climate plan would benefit from also covering the low-carbon technologies sector, including measures for decarbonising energy- and carbon-intensive industrial sectors and a more comprehensive analysis on where this sector is currently positioned in the global market, highlighting areas of competitive strengths and potential challenges. It could also benefit from further elaboration on the greenhouse gas emissions savings stemming from actions related to the circular economy.

                  (15)

                  The Commission's recommendations to Greece are underpinned by the assessment of Greece's draft integrated national energy and climate plan which is published alongside this Recommendation (7).

            HEREBY RECOMMENDS GREECE TAKES ACTION TO:

                  1.

                  Enable a timely and cost-effective achievement of Greece's 31 % contribution to the EU 2030 target for renewable energy, by including in the final plan, among others, an indicative trajectory that reaches all the reference points pursuant to Article 4(a)(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1999, and provide detailed and quantified policies and measures complying with the obligations laid down in Directive (EU) 2018/2001. Reconcile the objectives put forward in the draft plan for the share of renewable energy in the heating and cooling sector with the indicative target included in Article 23 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001 and the transport sector in line with Article 25 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001.

                  2.

                  Substantially increase its ambition towards reducing both final and primary energy consumption in view of the need to increase the level of efforts to reach the Union's 2030 energy efficiency target and support these with policies and measures that would deliver additional energy savings by 2030. Clarify the timeline for the adoption and implementation of the policies foreseen to be in place as of 2020, especially for the new instruments. The measures foreseen to achieve the cumulative savings goal should be designed at an adequate scale.

                  3.

                  Specify the measures supporting the energy security objectives on diversification and reduction of energy dependency, including measures ensuring flexibility, in particular regarding natural gas. Include an assessment of how the infrastructure projects and regional cooperation contribute to the energy security objectives, also making use of regional cooperation and flexibilities to use the opportunities presented by reducing greenhouse gas emissions for the modernisation of the Greek economy.

                  4.

                  Include forward-looking objectives and targets concerning market integration, in particular measures to increase competition in the retail and wholesale markets, in line with its commitment under the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) programme of reducing, by 2020, the incumbent's retail and wholesale market shares below 50 %. Implement the electricity target model and market coupling with neighbours, based on the timelines agreed under the post-programme surveillance mechanism.

                  5.

                  Further quantify the national objectives and funding targets in research, innovation and competitiveness, specifically related to the Energy Union, to be achieved between now and 2030, so that they are readily measurable and fit for purpose to support the implementation of targets in the other dimensions of the integrated national energy and climate plan. Underpin such objectives with specific and adequate policies and measures, including those to be developed in cooperation with other Member States, such as the Strategic Energy Technology Plan.

                  6.

                  Intensify the already good regional cooperation arrangements with Bulgaria and Cyprus as well as with the Central and South Eastern Europe Energy Connectivity (CESEC) countries. In the context of the ‘Clean Energy for EU Islands’ initiative, enhance cooperation with Member States and island regions facing similar geographic, climatic and infrastructure related challenges and opportunities in their energy transition. Explore the cross-border potential and the macro-regional aspects of a coordinated energy and climate policy notably in the Adriatic-Ionian with the aim of reducing the region's carbon footprint and implementing an ecosystem approach. The focus of the regional exchanges could be on internal energy market and energy security areas, in view to the changes in the electricity systems accommodating higher shares of renewable electricity, which will increase electricity import and export and enhance the need for system flexibility. In addition, make use of bilateral cooperation and flexibilities to use the opportunities presented by reducing greenhouse gas emissions for the modernisation of the Greek economy.

                  7.

                  List all energy subsidies, including in particular for fossil fuels, and actions undertaken as well as plans to phase them out.

                  8.

                  Complement the analysis of the interactions with air quality and air emissions policy with more quantitative information, at least including the required information about the projected air pollutants emissions under the planned policies and measures.

                  9.

                  Integrate just and fair transition aspects better, notably by providing more details on social, employment, skills and training impacts of planned objectives, and policies and measures. Provide more detailed information on the projects to support a just and fair transition, specifying the form of support and the impact of the initiatives, also making the link to the transition of coal, carbon-intensive or industrial regions. Further develop the approach to addressing energy poverty issues as required by the Regulation (EU) 2018/1999.

         Done at Brussels, 18 June 2019.

               For the Commission

            Miguel ARIAS CAÑETE

               Member of the Commission

         (1)  OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1.

         (2)  SWD(2019) 261.

         (3)  Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on energy efficiency, amending Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU and repealing Directives 2004/8/EC and 2006/32/EC (OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 1).

         (4)  SWD(2019) 1007 final.

         (5)  COM(2019) 508 final of 5 June 2019.

         (6)  SWD(2019) 261.

         (7)  SWD(2019) 261.