Energy prices in the EU are higher than in other regions and pose a risk to competitiveness, as highlighted in the Draghi report. They also affect households and citizens, who must bear the cost of volatile prices, leading to an increase of energy poverty.
The European Commission intends to tackle these issues via a dedicated action plan. Complementing the Clean Industrial Deal, it is an opportunity for the EU to shape its economic future and energy agenda. To be truly effective, it must align with the transition to 100% renewables. EU industries and households need affordable, safe and clean energy- something that cannot be achieved with fossil fuels or nuclear energy.
Renewable energy is the most cost-effective solution to produce energy and increase the overall electricity supply. To achieve sustainable and affordable energy, the EU needs to accelerate the decarbonisation of the energy system, phase out fossil fuels and drastically increase efforts to save energy. This will help lower prices while progressing faster on the transition, generating economic and social co-benefits on the way. The EU must prioritise renewables over fossil gas and other fossil fuels, increase flexibility and grid investments and ensure a just transition that does not put the burden on households. This includes dedicating schemes to support households to accelerate the transition to renewable energy.
In our new paper “CAN Europe’s key asks on the Affordable Energy Action Plan” we outline our policy recommentations on the upcoming Action Plan – find and read the full paper here.
Further resources: CAN Europe position on Clean Industrial Deal
