Tom Berendsen MEP (EPP, Netherlands), responsible for the own-initiative report on the implementation of the industrial strategy, said in a brief exchange with EUROPE on Thursday 12 May that there was a convergence between the political groups in the European Parliament on many points of the text, in particular that the European Commission should come up with reports on transition pathways as soon as possible.
The report, which is currently being discussed by the shadow rapporteurs, will focus on two main points, he explained. Firstly, it will focus on the energy transition, but also on the exit strategy from dependence on Russian gas and the need to support the industrial sector.
Secondly, it will stress the importance of reducing dependencies in general for the different sectors including medicines, semiconductors and batteries, he said.
The MEP dwelt on one point: the proposal for these ‘transition pathways’ by sector, a European Commission promise within the framework of the industrial strategy review (see EUROPE 12711/13).
In his view, the European institution is behind on presenting these transition pathways and must come up with concrete actions as soon as possible. The analyses proposed by the European Commission are good and fine, and it is now time to take action, he said.
Mr Berendsen also considers it essential to strengthen the monitoring of the situation of the various sectors with annual reports from the Commission. This monitoring may cover transition-related issues, such as the availability of a skilled workforce.
The MEP insisted on energy diplomacy. In his view, Member States should coordinate at European level in negotiations with third countries to import energy in order to use the European internal market as a lever, especially in negotiations on gas, liquefied natural gas and hydrogen.
The report is expected to be voted on in committee in July and in plenary session in September. (Original version in French by Pascal Hansens)