News
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26/04/2012
EU 'must focus on rural areas' to meet energy targets
The EU has been urged to make better use of energy resources in rural areas if it is to reach its environmental targets. A Parliament Magazine roundtable debate heard that more than 40 million European citizens are not connected to the grid, with the majority living in rural or isolated areas having to resort to carbon intensive energy sources. Lambert Van Nistelrooij, who hosted the event on Wednesday, told participants, "We need competitive, independent and decentralised energy in these areas. There are concrete targets that need to be met. If we don't act we won't reach our goals," he said. source: The Parliament Magazine.
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26/04/2012
Air quality affects people's daily lives and health in both urban and rural areas, says CoR
"Air quality affects people's daily lives and health in both urban and rural areas... it is vital to identify the causes of pollution and to tackle emissions at source in the most economically effective and environmentally friendly way possible" underlined CoR member Mr. Lamers (NL/EPP), Mayor of Houten, during the presentation of his draft outlook opinion on the revision of EU air quality and emissions policy in the February meeting of the Commission for the Environment, Climate Change and Energy (ENVE). "Whilst regions have a great responsibility in this matter, there is a limit to their influence due to cross-border pollution and regulations at the national or EU level." source: Committee of the Regions.
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05/04/2012
Public consultation on the development of the regional energy strategy
The aim of the public consultation is to collect the views of concerned stakeholders about the main issues to be included in the Strategy.
The 9th Ministerial Council approved in its conclusions the establishment of a Task Force, whose objective is to develop a Regional Energy Strategy, which will take stock of where the region currently stands and where it is heading in the next decade. The Strategy will draw up a list of regional objectives and the main actions that are required to reach them.
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04/04/2012
Study on Cohesion Policy and Sustainable Development
The study assessed the impact of Cohesion Policy investments 2007-2013 on the environment, and the way that sustainable development considerations have been integrated into planning, implementation and follow-up at the strategic, programming and policy level. This was done through a number of case studies, as well as analysis of the available data at EU level, in particular in relation to expenditure. It also made a number of recommendations on how the integration of sustainable development into Cohesion Policy could be improved.
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22/02/2012
February edition of the FREE Newsletter published!
Learn more about energy efficency, Common Agricultural Policy, and air quality in rural areas.
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13/02/2012
Energy Efficiency in Rural Areas: Call for Action
On Tuesday 14 February 2012, Energy Ministers will discuss the Commission proposal for an Energy Efficiency Directive. While discussions may focus on specific details of the proposal, the FREE initiative (Future of Rural Energy in Europe) wants to raise Member States' attention on one very simple fact: energy efficiency in rural areas is in a critical state and needs to be addressed.Rural households and small businesses face several disadvantages with regards to their energy use, particularly due to the nature of the building stock. Rural buildings are significantly older (in France, half of them predate 1950) and their renovation is more costly for their owners. When it comes to insulation for example, individual rural homes cannot benefit from the same benefits of scale that urban homes with multiple tenants may have. This situation, which applies to all Member States in various degrees, leads to higher fuel costs in rural areas, where the income per inhabitant is 21% to 62% lower[1].
The Commission proposal unfortunately fails to take these challenges into consideration. To date, it has concentrated its efforts on cities, on the basis of their demographic importance and their contribution to half of greenhouse gas emissions. While FREE understands the Commission's logic, its members would like to rebalance the focus of EU-driven initiatives towards rural areas. For Member States, the benefits in terms of job creation at local level and CO₂ emissions reductions would be very significant. The impact on the lifestyles of rural communities could be even bigger. FREE believes that equal access to energy efficiency should be guaranteed to all citizens, wherever they are located.
Rural and remote areas also present ideal conditions for the deployment of efficient forms of decentralised energy production in order to reduce energy losses along the grid. Through a combination of binding measures and policy recommendations, the EU has a role to play in providing the right framework for the deployment of clean and efficient technologies for end-users.
For this to happen, some adjustments should be made to the proposal. For example, as part of Article 6, energy efficiency measures applied in predominantly rural areas (as defined by the OECD) could count double towards the achievement of the 1.5% annual energy saving target. This would encourage obligated parties to intensify their efforts in rural areas. Member States should remain free to designate obligated parties or take measures with an equivalent impact for rural areas.
FREE would also welcome EU Structural Funds and Cohesion Fund to be specifically directed at energy efficiency projects in rural areas. It is in these regions that allocated funds would deliver the highest energy savings.
As part of the technology portfolio, Micro-CHP could also be specifically encouraged, in light of its benefits for rural and remote areas. A relevant policy framework should be set at EU level (Article 10) to encourage its roll-out in Member States where it is most appropriate (Northern Europe in particular).
The much awaited roll-out of 'smart grids' and 'smart meters' (Article 8) should also allow rural inhabitants to sell back to the grid the extra power produced at micro-level by renewable energy installations or highly-efficient technologies such as Micro-CHP. This is a concrete way of empowering rural energy users.
The new Energy Efficiency Directive provides an opportunity to put an end to the disadvantages faced by rural inhabitants when it comes to energy use.
It would be a shame to miss it.
The Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative gives a voice to all those who believe that rural energy needs are important issues both for those who live in the countryside and for European society as a whole. FREE aims to raise awareness on the importance of rural areas, their relatively disadvantaged energy position and the decisive role they can play in helping European governments achieve their energy & climate change policy objectives. FREE is therefore engaged in a dialogue with policymakers to achieve a low-carbon, efficient and competitive provision of energy in rural areas. This involves an active participation in discussions regarding the future of energy, rural development and regional policies in the EU and in Member States. The FREE initiative is supported by a range of organisations, united in their commitment to improving the lot and maximising the potential of rural communities.
Contact FREE Secretariat: e-mail: rural-energy@fleishman.com, telephone:02 282 09 76
www.rural-energy.eu
[1] First European Quality of Life Survey : Urban-rural differences, European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, 2006
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23/01/2012
The 50th Anniversary of the Common Agricultural Policy campaign
Brussels, 23 January 2012 – Today, the European Commission has launched the CAP@50 communication campaign to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Common Agricultural Policy, a cornerstone of European integration, that has provided European citizens with half a century of food security and a living countryside. The year-long communication campaign includes an interactive website, an itinerant exhibition, audio-visual and printed materials, as well as a series of events in Brussels and the Member States. Source: European Commission
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06/01/2012
The Danish government presents the programme of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union ‘Europe at work’
Together with the Minister for Economic Affairs and the Interior, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister for European Affairs, the Prime Minister presented on 6 January 2012 the Programme of the Danish EU Presidency for the next six months.
Source: http://eu2012.dk
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23/12/2011
Dutch MEPs Van Nistelrooij and Eickhout on 'empowering' consumers
Dutch MEPs Van Nistelrooij and Eickhout on 'empowering' consumers. In favour of sustainable decentralised energy production & consumption and financial incentives for consumers & business.
Their discussion is to be continued on binding energy efficiency targets.
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23/12/2011
December edition of the FREE Newsletter published
As the Polish EU Presidency is coming to an end, this edition of the Newsletter presents a special feature on Polish FREE activities.- FREE participates in Commission Consultation on Air Quality2011
- Polish Municipality of the Future
- Energy thieves are right there, at your home
- Barriers to local energy development in Poland
- New report shows lack of knowledge about energy efficiency among Polish consumers
- Micro-CHP as an integral component of the UK's energy strategy
- FREE conducts energy audit of eight villages
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15/12/2011
Today, the European Commission has adopted the Communication 'Energy Roadmap 2050': a secure, competitive and low-carbon energy sector is possible
On 15 December 2011, the European Commission adopted the Communication "Energy Roadmap 2050" . The EU is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 80-95% below 1990 levels by 2050 in the context of necessary reductions by developed countries as a group. In the Energy Roadmap 2050 the Commission explores the challenges posed by delivering the EU's decarbonisation objective while at the same time ensuring security of energy supply and competitiveness. The Energy Roadmap 2050 is the basis for developing a long-term European framework together with all stakeholders. [source: European Commission]
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15/12/2011
CoR welcomes EC Energy Roadmap 2050 but warns priorities must be rebalanced
The Committee of the Regions has broadly welcomed the European Commission's Energy Roadmap 2050 announced today but has warned that more will need to be done to help local and regional authorities to play their part in reducing energy consumption and switching to more sustainable energy sources. After a long and lively debate, the Committee also rejected separate proposals for setting Europe-wide targets for the renovation of public buildings, arguing that such a sensitive issue should be left to each Member State to decide for itself. [source: European Commission]
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09/11/2011
Industry report urges UK Government to back micro-CHP as part of energy future
On 9 November 2011, leading companies in the micro-CHP (Combined Heat and Power) sector have launched a report highlighting how micro-CHP can actively contribute to the UK's transition to greener heat and power generation, if given the right support now. Micro-CHP, a technology developed and manufactured in the UK, can use the nation's existing gas network and installer skills to enable consumers to heat their homes efficiently and at the same time generate low-carbon power that can be used on-site or exported to the grid. [ source: jdsassociates].
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21/10/2011
EU must not leave rural areas behind, CoR President Bresso says
Speaking at the European Congress of Rural Municipalities in Warsaw on 20 October Mercedes Bresso underlined that rural areas continue to suffer from high unemployment and lack of basic infrastructure. Reform proposals for EU regional policy and agriculture were a step in the right direction to close these development gaps, President Bresso said. [source: Committee of the Regions]
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19/10/2011
Study on administrative burden reduction associated with the implementation of certain Rural Development measures
The burden of red tape on farmers associated with rural development is below 5% of the total public expenditure for the measures, according to a new report. The report also presents a number of good practices and shows that e-government solutions, the streamlining of procedures and the use of less burdensome reimbursement approaches can reduce the level of red tape on farmers even further. The Commission will now follow up and has already acted on one of the recommendations by proposing less burdensome reimbursement approaches in the recent CAP reform proposals. The study was carried out in Bulgaria, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary and Italy by a consortium consisting of CAP GEMINI, Deloitte and Ramboll. It evaluates the administrative burden or red tape for farmers associated with support for activities such as training, diversification, modernisation, organic farming, crop rotation, reduction of fertilizers and catch crops. The recommendations to further reduce the administrative burden on farmers generally concern the practicalities of the implementation of the measures by Member States. The recommendations suggest for instance a further use of e-government solutions and online portals, as well as providing guidelines and streamlining information requirements (providing information only once). [Source: European Commission]
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19/10/2011
Commission publishes energy infrastructure priorities for 2020 and beyond
On 19 October 2011, the European Commission unveiled its proposal for a Regulation on "Guidelines for trans-European energy infrastructure". This proposal aims at ensuring that strategic energy networks and storage facilities are completed by 2020. To this end, the Commission has identified 12 priority corridors and areas covering electricity, gas, oil and carbon dioxide transport networks. It proposes a regime of "common interest" for projects contributing to implementing these priorities and having obtained this label. [Source: European Commission]
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19/10/2011
FREE Poland participates in the European Congress of Rural Municipalities
On 19-20 October, Warsaw will host the European Congress of Rural Municipalities. FREE Poland will be among the pannelists. More information (in polish) is avaliable here.
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19/10/2011
European Territorial Cooperation: building bridges between people
Regional Policy Directorate General just published a new publication entitled 'European Territorial Cooperation: building bridges between people'. This publication, available on line here, gives an insight into how cooperation, including the European groupings for territorial cooperation and EU macro-regional strategies, currently works, and what the future may hold. It brings you stories about people from all over Europe who either have benefited from, or are somehow connected to, cooperation. [source: Inforegio]
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17/10/2011
Rural Energy Day videos and presentations published
Welcome remarks by Loic Driebeek, Senior Vice-President SHV Energy
Opening statement by MEP Lambert van Nistelrooij, Regional Development Committee, European Parliament
Introductory remarks by Ulla Sirkeinen, Member of the European Economic and Social Committee, Group I (Employers), Vice-President of TEN Bureau (Section for Transport, Energy, Infrastructure and the Information Society)
Official launch & presentation of 'Rural Energy in the EU' study by Ann Gardner, Division Director International Energy and Climate Policy and Strategy, Ecofys
An introduction to Europe's rural energy landscape - future opportunities by Andrew Ford, SHV Energy
Presentation by Xavier Noyon, Secretary General, Global Solar-Thermal Energy Council (ESTIF)
Presentation by Marie Guitton, European multisectoral association for co-operation and development of mountain territories (EUROMONTANA)
Reflection on energy challenges in a rural area, Jonathan Millins, European Policy Officer, East of England Brussels Office
Keynote speech by Gerhard Stahl, Secretary General, Committee of the Regions
Views on the potential of cogeneration in rural areas by Arnaud Duvielguerbigny, Head of Policy, COGEN Europe
Presentation of 'Beyond the Gas Grid' study by Samuel Maubanc, European LP Gas Association (AEGPL)
Adrian Joyce, Campaign Director, Renovate Europe & Secretary General, EuroACE
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12/10/2011
Commission published four basic Council regulations for the Common Agriculture Policy
The Commission has today published proposals for Four basic Council regulations for the Common Agriculture Policy – i) on Direct Payments, ii) the Single Common Market Organisation (CMO), iii) Rural Development and, iv) a Horizontal Regulation for financing, managing and monitoring the CAP. In addition, there are 3 smaller regulations to address transition arrangements to the new rules. The package also contains: An Explanatory Memorandum; Citizens Summary; and Annexes linked with different aspects of the Impact Assessment. [source: European Commission]
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21/09/2011
Energy study reveals urgent need for more policy targeted at Europe’s rural areas
Rural areas use more polluting energy sources and have higher carbon emissions
Brussels, September 21st 2011: A new study released today by Ecofys shows that Europe's rural areas use more polluting energy sources than urban areas and consequently have high greenhouse gas emissions.
The study – supported by the Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative – was launched in Brussels on Rural Energy Day. It focuses on the rural geographies of Germany, France, Italy, Poland and the UK and demonstrates the high potential that those areas have for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A switch from heating oil and coal to renewable energy sources or lower carbon fuels in rural areas could reduce carbon emissions from households and services in five EU countries by up to the equivalent of eight coal-burning power plants (35 Mt CO2-eq).
However, EU energy policy to date – including the recent EU proposal for an Energy Efficiency Directive, largely neglects rural areas. Andrew Ford of FREE says "Rural areas can contribute greatly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and specific energy use policies aimed at rural communities could save money and combat climate change. In the agricultural sector, policies facilitating a better energy mix will be of enormous benefit. And access to sustainable and lower carbon energy systems in rural areas must be facilitated."
Amongst the changes that the FREE initiative would like to see are:
Additional attention given to energy production and consumption in areas of low economic activity The European Commission to link the upcoming EU Budget with the Energy Efficiency Directive and to ensure that enough funds are attributed to energy efficiency in rural housing. The upcoming EU Budget should not solely focus on large scale energy infrastructure projects, but also allocates funds to decentralised energy production and supply, especially in the areas where this type of energy production is the most effective.
The Ecofys study can be seen at: www.rural-energy.eu/report
The Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative gives a voice to all those who believe that rural energy needs are important issues both for those who live in the countryside and for European society as a whole. For more information on FREE, visit www.rural-energy.eu or contact Esther Busscher at the FREE Secretariat (0032 478 235 188, rural-energy@fleishman.com).
Ecofys is a leading consultancy company in renewable energy, energy efficiency
and climate change. If you would like to contact the authors of the report, please contact Ann Gardiner (+44 7786830874, A.Gardiner@ecofys.com). -
27/06/2011
The future of cogeneration – a trip to 2050
On 27 June 2011, COGEN Europe, the European Trade Association for the Promotion of Cogeneration, published a report entitled ‘Cogeneration 2050’.
In its scenario ‘Cogeneration 2050’, COGEN Europe tempts to look beyond the multiply cited 2020 targets. In this ‘vision of the future’, a “high efficiency low carbon” scenario of 2050 is imagined – the energy supply mix will be radically different of today’s, as Europe cannot “afford to waste energy”.
The report demonstrates the significant role which cogeneration, thus the simultaneous production of electricity and heat, can play to achieve the objectives of improved energy efficiency. This is also of importance for rural areas, as ‘Cogeneration 2050’ underlines the potential of Micro-CHP – the small-scale production of heat and power, even at the level of individual houses – for less urban areas. Indeed, Micro-CHP is a high efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional boilers. Such an appliance would at the same time lead to reduction in energy use and carbon emissions and lower household energy bills. An additional advantage is especially of significance in rural areas: through Micro-CHP reliance on the centralized power production is reduced – a reason why the ‘Cogeneration 2050’ report advocates that local energy demand should be met locally.
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24/05/2011
The Environmental Committee votes to move beyond 20% CO2 reduction target
On 24 May 2011, the Environment Committee of the European Parliament voted to move beyond current 20% Carbon Emission reduction target, currently set by the EU. Approved resolution calls upon the EU to set an unconditional 30% target as by end of 2011 the latest. The resolution states that minimum 25% of CO2 reduction can be achieved domestically, with the possibility to finance offset of the rest 5% of CO2 in other parts of the world.
The strong Committee vote (44 in favour, 14 against, 1 abstention) shows early signs of commitment from the European Parliament to set ambitious goals. Dutch MEP Bas Eickhout (The Greens/EFA), who drafted the resolution, said: "The European Parliament's position has been shifting over the last year. There is now broad support for a 30% reduction target and a growing realisation that ambitious climate policies are in Europe's own economic interest."
The final vote is expected to be held during a mini plenary session of the European Parliament on 23 June in Brussels. Although, if passed, this resolution would not be legally binding, it would send a strong signal to the European Commission and the European Council regarding European Parliament’s view on European Carbon Emission targets.
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13/05/2011
Cohesion policy should support rural areas, says results of the consultation on Cohesion Policy
The European Commission published the results of the public consultation on “the conclusions of the fifth report on economic, social and territorial cohesion”. The results of the consultation highlighted the need for a special approach towards rural areas of Europe.
In their consultation responses, the majority of Member States, regional governments and other stakeholders recognised the specific needs of European regions, particularly rural areas. Many of the responses called for the cohesion policy to be given a greater role in supporting rural areas and urban-rural linkages. Very few respondents requested equal treatment for all territories, irrespective of their specific territorial characteristics or challenges.
Respondents also called for a closer coordination of the cohesion policy funds (the ESF and ERDF) with other funds, such as the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and EU policies, including competition, transport, the environment and research.
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23/04/2011
Cogeneration industry wants wider support from the EU
Participants of the COGEN Europe Annual Conference called for EU policymakers to give wider support of the combined heat and power (CHP) technologies. CHP and micro-CHP technologies have the potential to help Europe reach its 2020 target of cutting final energy consumption by 20%. According to the current European Commission estimates, the EU will be able to fulfil its energy savings target only by 9%.
The event named “Cogeneration at the foundation of Europe’s energy policy” was attended by a number of EU policymakers. This included a Member of the European Parliament Alejo Vidal Quadras who supported the initiative and highlighted the importance of the energy efficiency for the whole Union. “In the 21st century, Europe must consider energy efficiency as fundamental. Efficient use of primary energy means a higher security of supply as well as money saved which can be released elsewhere in the European economy,” said Vidal-Quadras.
Cogeneration (Combined Heat and Power or CHP) is the simultaneous production of electricity and heat, both of which are used. One of the most prospective cogeneration technologies is micro-CHP. Micro or mini-CHP is a small-scale production of heat and power for commercial and public buildings, apartments and individual houses. It is able to provide household with both heat and power and, if connected to the grid, transfer energy to other households. It is estimated than expansion of CHP technologies could save a minimum of 35 mtoe of energy or some €19 billion in monetary value.
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16/04/2011
RURAL ENERGY – Discover the Potential of Europe’s New Rural Energy Solutions
Putting Rural Energy on the EU’s Sustainable Energy Agenda
As part of the EU Sustainable Energy Week, a Rural Energy conference was held in the Committee of the Regions on 12 April 2011. The conference was designed to discuss problems, issues, and solutions that particularly affect rural energy consumers. In other words, the clear objective was to put rural energy firmly on the roadmap for Europe’s future energy policy.
The conference was organised by RURENER, the Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative, the Regional Office of Silesia in Brussels, Euromontana, Farmagas, RES Champions League and Efficient 20. Over 70 stakeholders attended with excellent representation from business, associations, rural and energy organisations, as well as the regions and all EU institutions.
Introduction
The introductory remarks were made by Magdalena Chawula, Director of the Regional Office of Silesia in Brussels. She stated that rural energy is an important issue within the Silesia region, as Silesia focuses on the energy needs of almost 1,000,000 rural dwellers living in the region. The introductory message was written by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament. According to EP President Buzek, it is vital to acknowledge the importance of people living in rural areas as they make up a large part of the EU population and inhabit over 90% of its territory. He reinforced the importance of rural energy as an essential issue within the European energy policy and made specific comments relating to locally produced energy being used within local communities.
The Panel Debate
A lively debate followed the initial comments with a panel that included representatives from the European Commission’s DG Energy, DG Agriculture & Rural Development and DG Regional Policy, the European Parliament, the Committee of the Regions, and the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Poland in view of the upcoming Polish EU Presidency. There was much discussion and acknowledgement of the current lack of clarity for funding. This should become clearer after 29 June 2011 when the European Commission is expected to publish its communication on the Multiannual Financial Framework post-2013. Further discussion surrounded the substitution of high polluting fossil fuels with lesser polluting types. It was confirmed that the cohesion policy does allow and encourage this, particularly in energy efficiency measures. At the same time, it was noted during the discussion that whilst the Europe 2020 targets include a 20% share of renewable energy, one should not forget about the other 80% of the EU energy mix and the available lower carbon options in this area.
Andrzej Babuchowski, Minister-Counsellor of the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Poland to the European Union, and responsible for Agriculture, started the debate. He outlined Poland’s commitment to sustainable rural energy solutions. The biggest agricultural energy projects centre on biomass, biogas and small hydro-power applications. Mr. Babuchowski also introduced the Polish Rural Development Programme which provides money for local settlement rural energy solutions. Rural energy is considered an essential basic service for the economy and rural population and therefore grants of around 40% are available for approved projects. Finally, bioenergy was highlighted as a development priority during the term of Poland’s EU Presidency, particularly focusing on locally produced fuel which is then used locally.
Mihail Dumitru, Director Rural Development Programmes I at DG Agriculture & Rural Development, outlined the role of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) within the renewable energies targets. This includes short term support for energy crops. Agriculture is both a producer and consumer of energy, with significant energy usage by agricultural businesses. Dumitru stressed that energy supply disruption of even a short duration could mean a substantial reduction or the complete loss of an entire growing season. Sustainable biomass was identified as the major future energy source for this sector and the production of this fuel was also seen as an opportunity for this sector. He made it clear that in terms of the sourcing of sustainable biomass, primary forests would not be used for this purpose. On the CAP post 2013, Director Dumitru referred to promoting the transition to a low-carbon economy and realising the growth and jobs potential of rural areas as key priorities for the EU’s rural development policy.
Roman Doubrava, Programme Officer at the Energy Efficiency & Intelligent Energy unit of DG Energy and responsible for the Covenant of Mayors, stated that the major problem for rural areas lies in the governance capacity of local and regional levels to access funding which already exists. He also mentioned that the territorial approach championed by the Covenant of Mayors does not exclude rural energy and could accommodate such initiatives. This question about including rural areas through municipalities is currently on the agenda of the Covenant. Mr. Doubrava stated that regions and provinces have a major role in addressing the issue of sustainable rural development and reiterated that grants are available for this purpose outside of the cities as well. In addition, he referred to the new Smart Cities and Communities Initiative the European Commission is launching and that they will be looking for ways to either integrate rural areas or to develop such an initiative specifically for rural areas. Mr. Doubrava was pleased to see that RURENER is involved in this Rural Energy conference and ongoing debate as it is a practical example of how rural energy challenges can be addressed and overcome by using available rural energy solutions.
Ulrich Krause-Heiber, Deputy Head of Unit for Austria and Slovenia at DG Regional Policy, welcomed the initiatives undertaken by the organisers of the event. He noted that partnerships on the ground and cooperation among stakeholders have a decisive role in sustainable energy matters. Mr. Krause-Heiber mentioned that for the current financial period from the cohesion policy side 9 billion Euros have been allocated to energy efficiency. This is only a small part (3%) of the total cohesion budget. Mr. Krause-Heiber is confident that this share will increase in the future, especially if Member States, regions and the Commission work together on the negotiations for the next Multiannual Financial Framework. He also announced that cohesion funds can now be invested to improve energy efficiency in buildings which still account for 40% of EU CO2 emissions.
Jens Zvirgzdgrauds, Administrator at the Committee of the Regions and active in the Commission for Environment, Climate Change and Energy, was pleased to see that the opening FREE video contained the essence of the current opinions of the Committee of the Regions on renewable energy. He also addressed the matter of ambition versus reality in view of the specific remote situations, saying that whilst renewables remain a priority for the regions they understood and acknowledged the continued use of lower carbon fossil fuels in these remote areas. Mr. Zvirgzdgrauds welcomed the now increased recognition of rural areas by the Covenant of Mayors and reminded the audience that it was the Committee of the Regions who already asked for the covenant to be opened up for regions in the past. On the EU’s energy infrastructure which particularly provides for pipelines and large grids, Mr. Zvirgzdgrauds wondered what will be left for small scale decentralised energy production which in fact is the essence of rural energy. He expects the European Commission to provide more clarity on this important issue with communications on several relevant energy issues and on the next financial framework later on this year.
Lambert van Nistelrooij, Member of the European Parliament (EPP) and active member of the REGIO Committee officially concluded the conference by referring to the upcoming paradigm shift in EU energy policy; increasingly moving away from centralised energy production and infrastructure, to enabling new decentralised possibilities for generating low-carbon energy. To address the funding gap identified by the panellists and for Member States to effectively take ownership of the energy and climate change mitigation objectives and targets, Mr. Van Nistelrooij stressed the importance of voicing and including the opinions and agendas of regional actors in the next financial package.
Against this background, he welcomed the shift from a mono-fund to a multi-fund approach to optimally make use of synergies between various existing funds. Mr. Van Nistelrooij also referred to his recent written question on energy in rural areas to the European Commission on the need for a 'best practice guide' for local authorities and communities in rural areas. Finally, to honour MEP Van Nistelrooij’s commitment to rural energy and rural communities, Mr. Andrew Ford of SHV Gas and representative of the FREE initiative welcomed Lambert van Nistelrooij as a new ‘Friend of FREE.’
Aline Brachet, Project Manager of RURENER, thanked the panellists and audience for contributing to the rural energy discussion and shared some experiences of its network of small rural communities for energetic neutrality which is financed by the Intelligent Energy Europe programme of the European Commission. Ms. Brachet called upon the attendees to help small rural communities address rural energy challenges by building the bridge towards the Covenant of Mayors and by exchanging information on the local impact of EU funding on rural energy projects.
Rural Energy Solutions Exhibition
The conference was concluded with an exhibition on available rural energy solutions, combined with a poster exhibition by Iceland on renewable energy. It was opened by Mercedes Bresso, President of the Committee of the Regions.The attendees were able to personally discover the potential of Europe’s new rural energy solutions through multimedia stands and discussions with the exhibitors present such as RURENER, Regional Office of Silesia in Brussels, Euromontana, Podlaskie Regional Office, Glass for Europe, AEGPL (European LPG Association), BAXI, Polyurethanes, Farmagas and RES Champions League.
Interested in the presentations of these key speakers and more visuals of the conference & exhibition? Visit the FREE website: http://www.rural-energy.eu or contact the FREE secretariat: +32 2 234 68 94 /
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15/04/2011
Presentations from the RURAL ENERGY Discover the Potential of Europe's New Rural Energy Solutions now avaliable
Presentation from the conference RURAL ENERGY Discover the Potential of Europe's New Rural Energy Solutions now avaliable:
- Presentation by Roman Doubrava, European Commission, Directorate-General for Energy: A commitment towards Europe’s energy and climate policy
- Presentation by Mihail Dumitru, European Commission, Directorate-General for Agriculture: Renewable energy – EU policy update
- Presentation by Prof. Andrzej Babuchowski, Permanent Representation of the Republic of Poland to the European Union: Ways to better integrate rural communities in EU efforts to promote sustainable energy and climate mitigation.
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08/04/2011
Euromontana became official supporter of the Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative
The partnership aims to ensure that the needs of rural communities are fully considered in the development of energy policies at EU level. Since the beginning Euromontana has been following and contributing to their activities. On 17th March, Euromontana board members decided to become official supporter of this initiative.
Click here to learn more.
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04/04/2011
Fulfilling Potential – We should better use the potential of rural areas, writes Lambert van Nistelrooij Member of the European Parliament
In view of the 2011 EU Sustainable Energy Week (11-15 April, Brussels), Lambert van Nistelrooij, an MEP from the Netherlands who deals with regional policy at the European level, called on EU policymakers to pay more attention to the needs of rural areas. He reiterates that rural areas represent 90% of the EU’s territory and more than 50% of the EU’s population, and so far have been overlooked by the European policymakers. Therefore, if Europe wants to achieve its 2020 goals (which in terms of energy involves 20% CO2 emission reduction, 20% increase in energy efficiency and 20% share for renewable energy) it has to develop a comprehensive programme for the rural areas.
Mr. van Nistelrooij highlights that one of the biggest energy challenges for rural citizens is a lack of access to the electricity and natural gas grids. While in some countries, such as the Netherlands, the overwhelming majority of the population has access to the energy grid, in other parts of Europe the situation is less favourable. Significant numbers of people living in the rural areas have limited access to the natural gas grid, or even to the electricity infrastructure. As a result, rural dwellers have to resort to energy sources with over-average CO2 emissions.
Against this background, Mr. van Nistelrooij considers the development of a European bio based economy and micro-generation as an important tool to address energy and climate issues. For this purpose, he is in favour of decentralised generation of low-carbon energy and supports initiatives such as FREE, which focus on rural energy solutions.
The Parliament Magazine, 4 April 2011
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18/03/2011
Agriculture Council: 20 EU Member States agreed upon the future of CAP
A joint declaration on the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) was signed at the meeting of the European Ministers for Agriculture on the 17th March in Brussels. The declaration was based on the European Commission Communication on “CAP towards 2020: Meeting the food, natural resources and territorial challenges of the future”, published in November last year. It has been reported that some 90% of the original Communication paper was adopted, with budget and direct aid being the biggest points of disagreement. Seven Member States – the three Baltic states, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Sweden and Malta – declined the proposals offered and were left isolated.
EU agriculture Commissioner Dacian Cioloş and French Agriculture Minister Bruno Le Maire were pleased with the conclusions of the Council, calling the signed agreement a “success”. The particular reason for satisfaction was the fact that Poland, a country which was seen as one of the main opponents of the Commission Communication paper, decided to drop its demand for the introduction of flat-rate direct support and join the coalition of 20 countries. However, the seven Member States which refused to sign the agreement, said that the declaration on the future of CAP is unable to address the sustainability issues and does not represent a fair distribution of payments.
This agreement represents a more conservative reform of the future Common Agricultural Policy and a win for a French-German coalition. France has spent the last 6 months trying to convince other Member States to support their view of a strong CAP with at least the same level of budget. The CAP, currently worth about €55 billion a year, is expected to receive the first package of legislation in Autumn this year and go through all the necessary procedures and discussions before 2014, when the new CAP will be implemented.
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18/03/2011
European Economic and Social Committee calls for a stronger EU external energy policy
The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has published its opinion on the EU external energy policy. The paper, named “Energy supply: what kind of neighborhood policy do we need to ensure security of supply for the EU?”, was requested by the current Hungarian Presidency of the European Union as part of their energy agenda. It shows strong support for a common EU energy policy.
The EESC’s opinion underlines that the EU energy dependency on external suppliers is constantly growing, which poses a threat for the overall security of the Union. Therefore, both the European Commission and the Member States should promote common EU foreign policy on energy. Another point called the EU to improve its partnership with Europe’s energy suppliers, such as the Eastern Partnership. The paper also urges the European Commission to explore the possibility of an EU energy treaty that would bring energy issue to the next level and complete the provision of the Lisbon Treaty.
The European Economic and Social Committee is a consultative body that gives representatives of Europe's socio-occupational interest groups, and others, a formal platform to express their points of views on EU issues. The EESC opinions are forwarded to the European Commission, which considers them for its legislative proposals.
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09/03/2011
Committee of the Regions highlights the importance of rural areas in the European Union
Talking at the 128th Bureau meeting of the Committee of the Regions, the current President of the institution, Mercedes Bresso highlighted the size and importance of European rural areas and urged European Institutions and the Member States to pay more attention to rural areas. She highlighted their significance in the context of the Cohesion and Agriculture Policies. "EU policies to develop rural areas will be based on the Common Agricultural Policy and Cohesion Policy, and will lie at the heart of any European debate", said Ms Bresso.
This position was greeted favorably by other participants of the meeting, which happened in a city of Gödöllõ, in Hungary. It was noted that rural areas are the main supplier of resources for urban areas. "The city is the market for countryside produce and the countryside is a resource for cities," said Jozsef Angyan, the Hungarian junior minister for agriculture. However, the right balance of support for cities and rural areas should be found, in order to achieve optimal welfare levels.
Participants also added, that rural areas need stronger support from the European Regional Development Fund, with support taking a “bottom up" approach. In addition, rural areas are essential for Europe as they provide a great diversity of landscapes, renewable energy, quality goods and raw materials, which needs to be sustained throughout member states.
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22/02/2011
Agriculture Council of the EU indecisive on some aspects of 5th Cohesion report
Following the Agriculture Council on 21 February, the EU Agriculture ministers have decided to postpone its decision on creating a new group of the EU Member States which would receive aid from the EU Cohesion Fund. The new proposal, championed by the EU Regional Policy Commissioner Johannes Hahn, proposes to create a new category of EU regions with a GDP of between 75% and 90% of the EU average. This would allow these regions to receive more money under the new Cohesion Policy which would come in place after 2013. Under the current conditions, all regions who have a GDP higher than the EU average (75%) will receive considerably lower amount of financial assistance in after-2013 period.
Otherwise, the Council of the EU Agriculture ministers has welcomed the European Commission’s 5th Cohesion report. The ministers agreed that the Cohesion Fund should be used for several key priorities towards 2020, such as energy, innovation and support for SMEs, contrary to using Fund on a wider range of projects. The Council also supported the idea of a so-called 'common strategic framework' for the various EU funds – including the rural development fund. In addition, the European Council supported Commissioner Hahn’s idea of performance reserve, where the best-performing regions is receiving “bonus” money.
The next meeting of Ministers responsible for regional development will be held in May 2011, as part of Hungarian Presidency agenda.
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21/02/2011
New report calls for an increase in green investment
New study commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety calls for significant increase in investment in green technologies. The report argues that an increase of “green” investment by 4% of GDP, will increase economic growth rates by up to 6% a year. Another proposed measure is a move from 20% carbon emission reduction target by 2020 (compared to 1990 levels) to 30%. This would be a major incentive for all industries and would spur the economic growth. It also claims that it would create six million additional jobs, most of which would be in high-tech sectors. This goes in line with a position of some EU Member States, such as Sweden, and Brussels officials, such as Climate Action Commissioner Connie Hedegaard, who is reluctant to pursue 30% reduction target by 2020.
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18/02/2011
Discussions on the future of Common Agricultural Policy enter the final stage
On Monday 21 February, the Agriculture Council of the EU will hold the final discussion on the future of Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) in the post-2013 period. This Council meeting will concentrate on social policy of rural areas and territorial balance. The Hungarian Presidency of the EU is expected to publish the draft conclusions of the Council meeting in March.
So far, the discussions on the future of CAP have been concentrated around the France-Germany agreement. The Franco-German position wants the new CAP Policy to take differences between the Member States into account when calculating the amount of payments, as well as their contributions to the EU budget. It also wants a longer transition period for the farmers of the old Member States and “greening” of the first pillar of CAP. The main resistance comes from Italy, who sees “greening” of first pillar of CAP as overcomplicated and calls for more flexible payments instead. Poland is another opponent to the Franco-German position, as they consider the fixed rate of payments across the EU to be the best option.
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16/02/2011
The draft Energy Roadmap for 2050 advises 25% reduction target
The European Commission’s “Roadmap for moving to a low-carbon economy in 2050” will recommend setting a 25% CO2 reduction target, says draft leaked this week. It proposes increasing current EU target – 20% reduction – by 5%, mostly by fulfilling the EU energy savings targets. The 25% target is less than a 30% target proposed by the Climate Action Commission Connie Hedegaard, and is seen as a compromise between different actors in Brussels.
The draft Roadmap also proposes 80%-95% CO2 reduction target by 2050 and calls for 1.5% of EU GDP investment increase in low-carbon energy annually. In addition, the Roadmap calls for a stronger EU Emission Trading Scheme and reduced excess allowances for industries.
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28/01/2011
Czech Agriculture Minister has criticised the post-2013 CAP
Czech Agriculture Minister Ivan Fuksa voiced mixed comments on the European Commission’s Communication on the post-2013 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). He noted that fairer distribution of funds will be welcomed by all “new” Member States. However, Mr. Fuksa expressed his concerns with the Commission’s plans to make a transitional period for old EU-15 Member States. “It is threatening to harm the farmers in new Member States, which would receive less funds”, he said. The Czech Minister also pointed out, that it will be very difficult to change anything in the Commission or Council, due to a resistance from “old” Member States.
The Communication on the post-2013 Common Agricultural Policy was published by the European Commission in November 2010. It planned more equal distribution of funds between the EU-27 and increase the Rural Development Fund. The Communication drew criticism from new Member States, who pointed at the transitional period for old Member States. The Commission plans to introduce the transition in order to avoid “revolution” amongst the farmers from the old Member States and give them time to adjust.
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20/12/2010
European Parliament approves its resolution on the new Energy Efficiency Action Plan
On 15 December 2010, the European Parliament adopted a resolution on the revised Energy Efficiency Action Plan, based on the report drafted by Bendt Bendtsen MEP. The report sends a strong signal to the European Commission in calling for a 20% binding energy efficiency target by 2020.
This has been widely recognised as a positive step. It is expected that the binding target would create new green jobs, reduce import dependence and bring real reductions in CO2 emissions. The parliamentary resolution also recognises the untapped potential of energy savings in rural areas and introduces the possibility of granting more EU funds to energy efficiency projects. It also includes the possibility of making energy efficiency a condition for the allocation of EU funds. The report will be sent to the European Commission for consideration.
The revised Energy Efficiency Action Plan is expected to be unveiled by the European Commission in March 2011.
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17/12/2010
Modest Climate Change Deal has been reached in Cancun, COP16
A modest agreement has been signed at the COP16 Summit in Cancun by all countries, except for Bolivia. The deal is considered minimal, but still a success, taking into consideration low expectations both before and during the event.
The biggest progress was made on the Climate Finance. Participants in Cancun agreed to create a new Green Climate Fund which will support programmes in developing countries. The fund will operate $100 billion a year, however it was not decided how this amount will be raised.
The Conference also saw a deal on deforestation reached. Delegates agreed to support countries with tropical rainforests in their efforts to reduce emissions from deforestation. Good progress was made on the issues of technology transfer. A Technology Mechanism will be established to promote the technology transfer to the developing nations. Another positive outcome was the recognition for the first time that developing countries should contribute to the emissions reduction efforts. As expected, no binding targets were implemented.
However, major issues like the post-Kyoto agreement and Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) were not resolved and have been left for COP17 in South Africa. Japan, Canada and Russia blocked any early agreements on these topics.
Agriculture was another unaddressed issue. Despite the fact that it accounts for 30% of greenhouse gas emissions and is expected to grow by 70% due to an increasing population of the Earth, participating countries failed to pass an agricultural work programme at the COP16. The only positive sign was a call from the World Bank to make agriculture part of the solution to climate change.
In general, COP16 can be viewed in a positive light. After last year’s Copenhagen fiasco, the Cancun Deal gives hope that global agreement can be reached in South Africa next year. Only next time, countries will have to work even harder.
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30/09/2010
The Parliament Magazine MEP Awards 2010: Gaston Franco receives the MEP award for Rural Development
Brussels, 29 September 2010 –Gaston Franco receives the MEP Award 2010 on Rural Development.In little more than a year as Member of European Parliament, Gaston Franco (French Conservative) has built himself a strong reputation on rural issues in connection with climate and environmental concerns. As a member of the Industry, Research and Energy committee, he has been one of the few MEPs to formulate and defend the specific energy and environmental needs of rural areas. This is also in line with his repeated commitment to the development of mountainous regions in South East France.
When it comes to energy supply, rural dwellers benefit from a more limited range of energy solutions. They also suffer from high-polluting, expensive and poorly-efficient energy technologies. Climate change targets for 2020 will not be met by focusing efforts on cities only: a consistent legal and regulatory framework should also address energy and climate challenges of rural areas.
Through his work on forestry and renewable energies, Gaston Franco has significantly helped to bring together agriculture, energy and climate change policies for the benefit of rural communities.
On behalf of the Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative we congratulate Mr. Franco on this achievement.
SHV Gas, who sponsored the Rural Development Award, said that this award sends a strong signal that rural energy is important, and encourages policymakers to consider rural needs when discussing policies, particularly relating to energy.
More information about the MEP awards is available here.
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10/09/2010
Putting a face to food: European Young Farmer Photo Award
CEJA, The European Council of Young Farmers in collaboration with the Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative is pleased to announce a new photo exhibition which will tour the European institutions to show a more modern, dynamic and upbeat image of European farming and those living in rural communities.
The official award ceremony to mark the opening of the exhibition will take place on the 20th September at the European Congress of Young farmers in Belgium.
Young farmers were asked to send pictures to CEJA throughout 2009 and 2010 to be part of a competition to showcase a new light on Europe’s farmers. Hundreds of photographs were received and a jury panel consisting of representatives from the European Commission, The Belgian Presidency of the EU and agricultural journalists voted for the top photos.
According to CEJA President Joris Baecke “This exhibition shows a modern and upbeat image of our profession and puts a face to food and farming. We want to remind you of the young farmer behind the product, behind the label or behind the recipe.”
Loïc Driebeek, Senior Vice President of SHV Gas and representative of FREE, adds “This photo exhibition sheds a new light on those living in rural communities. The competition encourages creativity, imagination and skill. These characteristics are essential when dealing with rural challenges, including rural energy choice and sustainable rural energy solutions.”
Elin Svensson, a 22 year old dairy farmer from Sweden took top prize as the best photo to represent a dynamic, modern and upbeat image of European farming. On the picture with Andrew Ford of FREE, who handed out the award.
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09/09/2010
Europe’s CAP, attractive enough for future generations?
With Europe's Common Agricultural Policy up for reform CEJA, The European Council of Young Farmers, will hold the European Congress of Young Farmers just outside Brussels on the 20th September. The event will feature European Commissioner Dacian Ciolos and Belgian Federal Minister Sabine Laurelle amongst other high level speakers from EU institutions, agricultural experts, representatives from the banking sector and young farmers. The event coincides with the Informal Agriculture Council and is an official event on the agenda of the Belgian Presidency of the EU.
Organised at a crucial time ahead of the anticipated Communication from the European Commission, young farmers will outline their vision for a modern and rejuvenated agriculture to face the many challenges ahead.
For CEJA President Joris Baecke "We organized this event at a key time in the CAP post 2013 debate. As young farmers we are fully aware that the ongoing policy developments will affect our futures but also that of European citizens as a whole. It's about how farming and food will be in the years to come."
For local Belgian association Federation des Jeunes Agriculteurs "the seminar is a reminder that one of the CAP's essential roles is to maintain farming activity Europe wide". Groene Kring the other Belgian young farmer's organisation maintains that "The Belgian presidency comes at an important moment in the discussion of the CAP reform. With this event we want to give a clear message from young farmers to Europe and every European citizen."
The event will be concluded by a press conference and an award ceremony for the European Young Farmer Photo Competition which aims to promote a dynamic and upbeat image of European farming. The photo competition is supported by the Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative.
Journalists are invited to reserve their place by completing the registration form online.
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09/09/2010
The new Energy Efficiency Action Plan to focus on buildings
Energy Commissioner Günther Oettinger declared efficiency of buildings key to fulfilling EU’s target of making energy saving of 20% by 2020. This statement came after an informal meeting of energy ministers in Brussels, where they discussed the new, much anticipated Energy Efficiency Action Plan. Although the Energy Commissioner noted it will be large amount of work, he is positive that a draft can be presented for scrutiny at the EU summit devoted to energy on the 4th February 2011.
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02/09/2010
The Economist: Power to the people
A new article published in The Economist highlights the lack of energy in low-income areas and investigates innovative business models targeted at energy supply from the bottom-up.
“AROUND 1.5 billion people, or more than a fifth of the world’s population, have no access to electricity, and a billion more have only an unreliable and intermittent supply. Of the people without electricity, 85% live in rural areas or on the fringes of cities.”
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20/07/2010
EU Farm Policy debated at a stakeholders conference in Brussels
On 20 July 2010, Commissioner Dacian Ciolos gave a speech (FR) to close a two-day conference marking the culmination of the public debate on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The speech acknowledged a converging view towards taking advantage of the CAP reform to operate a ‘paradigm shift’ in favour of a greener, more sustainable European agriculture. However, Commissioner Ciolos reminded that his proposal would ensure a balance between environmental and economic performance. Interestingly, the importance of a ‘territorial vision’ of EU agriculture was one of the prominent ideas arising from the consultation. Many contributions indeed insisted on diversifying activities in rural areas and promoting tourism.
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16/07/2010
Europe still leading the way in renewable energy
REN21, a body supported by the United Nations and the International Energy Agency, released a study on July 16 showing that Europe is still leading the way in terms of ‘green investment’. More than half of new electricity capacity added to the grid in 2009 came from renewable sources in both Europe and the US. In Sweden, biomass accounts for a larger share than oil in the energy supply for the first time ever. The fastest growing industries are undoubtedly Solar PV and Wind Turbines. Incredible progress has also been achieved by developing countries like India and China, in the production of wind turbines and solar PVs especially.
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16/07/2010
Commission to recover € 265.02 million of CAP expenditure from the Member States
The European Commission adopted a decision on 16 July 2010, to reclaim EU farm funds unduly spent by Member States. This decision was taken due to non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. The main States sanctioned by the Commission’s decision are the UK, England and Northern Ireland especially, as well as Hungary. In total, the European Commission should recover 265.02 million Euros.
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14/07/2010
France, UK and Germany push for 30% CO2 reduction in Europe
On July 14, France, the UK and Germany’s environment ministers issued a joint declaration in the Financial Times advocating that the current 20% carbon emissions reduction target is too low to stimulate a transition towards a low carbon economy. The ‘Big three’ ministers argued that bailing on the 30% target could put Europe in the slow lane of sustainable development while depriving the continent’s industries from a vital head start. However, the declaration received a mixed reception from Connie Hedegaard who found that the move would not make sense in the present economic context. On the same note, representatives from Business Europe voiced the industry’s opposition to any increase in carbon emissions reduction targets.
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13/07/2010
Towards a new energy strategy for Europe 2011-2020
On 13 July 2010, Polish MEP Lena Kolarska-Bobinska presented a draft own-initiative report in the ITRE committee. The report agrees with the European Commission’s observation that “the current state of implementation of European energy legislation is overall poor”, therefore the report serves to reaffirm the current overriding objective: achieving a low carbon energy system while securing the energy supply, and strengthening the EU’s competitiveness to maintain affordable energy prices. The EP rapporteur insisted that it was time for the EU to develop innovative financial mechanisms to leverage energy investments and reach the non-binding 20-20-20 targets set in 2007.
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13/07/2010
Renewable energy contributed 10.3% of energy consumption in the EU in 2008
Eurostat released a study on July 13 who found that renewable sources were estimated to account for 10.3% of gross final energy consumption in the EU 27 in 2008. The 2009 directive sets individual targets for Member States, in order to reach a 20% share of renewable energy in the total energy mix by 2020. Countries with the most significant share of renewable energy are Sweden (44%), Finland (30.5%), Latvia (29.9%), whereas the lowest shares are Malta (0.2%), Luxembourg (2.1%), UK (2.2%). The 2009 directive required Member States to submit National Renewable Energy Action Plans (NREAP) by June 30. Yet only two Member States have respected the deadline, reports Euractiv.
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08/07/2010
Energy Commissioner Oettinger on possibility of reaching 100% renewables (Greenpeace conference)
Speaking at an event hosted by Greenpeace on July 8, Energy Commissioner Günther Oettinger suggested that he would assess the need for stronger regulation in the context of a “new policy action plan” to be presented in 2011. Greenpeace was presenting a joint NGO/industry study arguing that Europe can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 95% by 2050 by replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy and ramping up energy efficiency.
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08/07/2010
The European Parliament debates the future of CAP after 2013
On 8 July 2010, the European Parliament issued a resolution following the debate about a report submitted by MEP George Lyon (GB, ALDE) on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Agriculture Commissioner Dacian Ciolos took part in the debate and affirmed that the post-2013 strategy would place more emphasis on agriculture’s provision of public goods, such as the environment. The adopted report called for continued EU incentives for green initiatives. In addition, the European Parliament’s report advocated for more fairness in direct payments distribution, starting by bringing historic payments to an end by 2020.
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25/06/2010
Committee of the Regions gears up for cohesion reform and urges more support for interregional cooperation
Local and regional politicians from across Europe sent a strong message in favour of maintaining an ambitious EU cohesion policy after 2013, when its current design and funding expires. Meeting in Jaén, Spain, on 25 June the members of the Committee of the Regions' Commission for territorial cohesion (COTER) emphasised the positive knock-on effects of such funding for regional growth and social inclusion. At the same time, they urged reforms to improve its strategic planning and evaluation and called upon the European Commission to step up its support for interregional cooperation.
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22/06/2010
EU must tackle urban regeneration and energy efficiency, CoR President Bresso urges ministers in Toledo
Future EU regional funding must address infraregional disparities, particularly social renewal and energy efficiency. This was the message delivered by Committee of the Regions (CoR) President Mercedes Bresso to national ministers for urban development gathered in Toledo today. President Bresso was presenting a recent CoR opinion which had been requested by the Spanish Presidency for this ministerial debate.
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17/06/2010
The European Council on the contribution of agriculture policy to the fight against climate change
On 17 June 2010, the European Council gathered for the last time under the Spanish EU Presidency to discuss issues such as the EU 2020 Strategy and the contribution of agriculture and cohesion policy to achieving the EU targets listed in the strategy (20% greenhouse gas emissions reduction, 20% renewables in final energy consumption and 20% energy efficiency). The Council also tackled climate change issues and the possibility of moving beyond the 20% target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
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14/06/2010
Energy Council on the Commission’s Strategic Report on the Implementation of the Cohesion Policy Programmes
On 14 June 2010, the Council of the European Union published conclusions of the EU Foreign Affairs Council (meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs), which address the implementation of the Cohesion Policy Programmes and which refers to energy investments.
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11/06/2010
More than 5000 contributions to public debate on future of CAP
On 11 June 2010, the internet-based public debate on the future of the EU's Common Agriculture Policy, launched by Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloş, was closed. In the course of the 2-month period, more than 5 000 contributions were received from the general public and various organisations. The contributions were related to 4 basic questions – Why do we need a CAP? What do citizens expect from agriculture? Why reform the CAP? What tools do we need for the CAP of tomorrow? – Responses will now be analysed and collated by external experts. The majority of responses came from Germany, Poland, France, Latvia, Austria and Spain.
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10/06/2010
Commission sets up system for certifying sustainable biofuels
The European Commission decided to encourage industry, governments and NGOs to set up certification schemes for all types of biofuels, including those imported into the EU. This will help implement the EU's requirements that biofuels must deliver substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and should not come from forests, wetlands and nature protection areas.
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10/06/2010
New survey on sustainable energy policy
The Committee of the Regions and the European Commission, with the support of the Covenant of Mayors initiative, launched a survey on sustainable energy policy in cities and regions. This survey will be used to gather examples of good practice from EU regions and cities. The survey will also help to improve understanding of the challenges facing local and regional authorities and of the different approaches being adopted. The results will serve as input for the European Council on energy issues in early 2011 and help to define future EU action in this area.
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07/06/2010
New Publication: The European Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET-Plan) towards a low-carbon future
On 7 June, the European Commission published the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET-Plan), towards a low carbon future. The publication lists all initiatives which aim to contribute to the fight against climate change and the development of an effective low-carbon economy, including the European Industrial Bioenergy Initiative, the European CO2 Capture, the Transport and Storage Initiative, the Smart Cities Initiative and many others.
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07/06/2010
No European Heritage Label without the regions and cities, stresses the Committee of Regions
Europe is planning to better promote its heritage through a new label. The Committee of the Regions' message is clear: since the financial management of these sites falls mainly to the local and regional authorities, it is incomprehensible that the current Commission proposals foresee no role for them in this process.
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03/06/2010
Regions and cities warn Member states that Europe 2020 does not have the means to deliver on its promises
The overwhelming majority of the cities and regions that responded to the consultation conducted by the Committee of the Regions this spring believe that the Europe 2020 project, as it stands, does not have the means to deliver on its promises. Contributors also criticise the lack of time for a well coordinated decision taken by all levels of government and other stakeholders to ensure an effective implementation of the strategy. The Committee of the Regions' First Vice-president, Ramón Luis Valcárcel Siso, voiced these concerns in a letter sent yesterday to EU Heads of State and Government, as well as Presidents of EU institutions.
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27/05/2010
The Forum for Outermost Europe discuss their challenges
The first Forum of the Outermost Regions (six EU regions isolated from the European continent and without access to the EU energy grid) took place on 27 May 2010, highlighting energy and the fight against climate change as their main challenges. While some of the regions have already established themselves in the field of renewable energy (i.e. Madeira), others are still seeking new opportunities that may arise from the fight against climate change or their natural assets, in order to improve their energy balance and boost their competitiveness.
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11/05/2010
Employment in the agriculture sector down by 25% between 2000 and 2009 – Agriculture income fell by 11.6 % in 2009
Between 2000 and 2009, employment in the agricultural sector in the EU27 decreased by 25%, the equivalent of 3.7 million full-time jobs, according to a new report by EUROSTAT published today. It fell by 17% in the EU15 and by 31% in the 12 New Member States (NMS).
In 2009, employment in the agricultural sector was equivalent to 11.2 million full-time jobs in the EU27, of which 5.4 million were in the EU15 and 5.8 million in the NMS12.
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06/05/2010
Public consultation "Towards a new Energy Strategy for Europe 2011-2020" launched
The European Commission has today launched a public consultation on stock taking document "Towards a new Energy Strategy for Europe 2011-2020". We would welcome your views on this document, which will feed into the preparation of a new Energy Strategy that the Commission aims to adopt early next year. The consultation will run until 2 July 2010.
Consultation period: 07/05/2010 - 02/07/2010
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04/05/2010
Committee of Regions launches unique database of local climate action
On the 4 May 2010 Committee of the Regions (CoR) launched a new initiative which will help signatories of the Covenant of Mayors turn their commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions into a concrete reality, as local leaders push ahead with plans to tackle climate change despite the failure of Copenhagen.
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12/04/2010
The future of European agriculture policy - Call for a public debate
The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Ciolos launched a public debate on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The debate is expected to address issues such as the future of the CAP and its objectives, principles and contribution to the ‘Europe 2020’ strategy. All interested EU citizens and organisations can join the debate and submit their stance on CAP policy by the end of June 2010.
