EXCLUSIVE: European Union leaders will meet next week in Brussels to try and agree on targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase renewable energy and improve energy efficiency. Documents obtained by EURACTIV have revealed the negotiating positions of member states ahead of these crunch talks. Check the data table below or click here for full screen.
The EU’s proposed 2030 climate and energy framework includes a legally-binding 40% reduction of greenhouse gas (GG) emissions, a 30% improvement in energy efficiency (EE) by 2030 and raising the share of renewables (R) to 27% of the EU’s energy mix. Member states will decide if the efficiency and renewable targets are binding.
By setting a target number to “at least”, member states prevent a ceiling being placed on the goal. In practice with gas emissions, this could result in a 43-51% reduction in 2030, compared to 1990.
Poland is holding out against a deal, while Sweden is thought to be preparing more ambitious targets. Brackets indicate expected positions, not based on the draft summit conclusions.
The UK and Cyprus are against setting any binding energy efficiency targets, while Germany, Denmark and Portugal want all three targets binding and, for renewables and efficiency, set at 30%.
Conclusions reached on the 23-24 October will inform the EU’s position at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris. That conference is targeting a global, legally-binding universal agreement on climate.