The European Parliament (EP) has committed itself with an important decision to become a more environmentally conscious community. EP has set binding targets for renewable energy sources (RES) and non-binding targets for energy efficiency on member states which have to be reached until 2030. In order to achieve these goals, member states must set up an “integrated national energy and climate plan” for the next 10 years. The national plans will contain specific targets, contributions, policies and measures.
Based on the decision made on 13 November 2018, at least 32% of the energy consumption should be covered by renewable energy, and energy efficiency has to be improved by 32.5% by 2030. According to the latest data available, in 2016 Hungary’s 14% share of renewable energy consumption out of all energy resources was below the EU average of 17%.
Increasing the share of RES among citizens is a necessary step to reach the objectives. Member states shall assure that the European end-users become self-consumers by generating renewable energy for their own consumption, to store it and to even sell excess production. Furthermore, the spread of second generation biofuels must be encouraged in the transport sector. However, the contribution of first generation biofuels with a high risk of “indirect land use change” to the RES goals will be gradually phased out until 2030.
Once the Council of the European Union officially accepts the measures on energy efficiency goals, after the EP has approved them with an overwhelming majority, the new legislation will enter into force. Member states will have to implement the new rules into national law within one and a half year. The protection of the environment of the European citizens is confirmed again by the new EU level legislations.
CAM Consulting Kft. is always pleased to welcome policies on environment protection and sustainability. Our company will continue to seek opportunities to contribute to the European Union’s climate targets through the knowledge and experience we have accumulated from our RES and energy efficiency projects.
