The European Parliament has approved an update to the Renewable Energy Directive, which aims to increase renewable energy deployment in the EU.
The Directive will increase renewables’ share in the final energy consumption to 42.5% by 2030, with member states aiming for 45%. Furthermore, the legislation will also expedite permitting procedures for new renewable energy plants and adapt existing ones.
Additionally, the legislation aims to speed up the approval process for new renewable energy installations in “renewables go-to areas” and lead to a 14.5% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector by 2030. To remind, in late July the EU adopted the FuelEU maritime initiative to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping sector.
We have designated renewables as an overriding public interest, streamlining their approval process. Our focus encompasses wind power, photovoltaics, hydropower, geothermal energy, and tidal currents.
… said Lead MEP, Markus Pieper (EPP, DE)
Members have set a target of 5% of newly installed renewable energy capacity for innovative technology, and emphasized the need for a binding framework for cross-border projects. The legislation also includes stricter criteria for biomass use to prevent unsustainable practices and protect soil quality and biodiversity.
Biomass from wood will remain classified as renewable energy. Under the principle of ‘Positive silence’, investments will be deemed approved in the absence of administrative feedback. We now urgently need an EU electricity market design and an immediate shift to hydrogen for a greener transition
… supplied Lead MEP, Markus Pieper (EPP, DE)
