At the Renewable Hydrogen Summit organised by SolarPower Europe on Thursday 12 October, the Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for the ‘European Green Deal’, Maroš Šefčovič, highlighted the urgent need to adopt a clean and sustainable energy transition, particularly in view of the current crises.
Maroš Šefčovič pointed out that fluctuations in energy supplies, particularly gas, were having a direct impact on energy prices in Europe, making planning for business leaders increasingly complex, particularly with regard to energy costs and inflation.
Faced with these challenges, the European Commission intends to strengthen its commitment to a clean transition. Mr Šefčovič mentioned that, as part of the ‘European Green Deal’, a number of legislative processes were being completed. The aim is to enter a new phase of application and implementation of these targets, and to pass this task on to the next Commissions and Parliaments.
One of the main projects announced is the launch of “green transition dialogues”. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors to accelerate investment in renewable energies. Mr Šefčovič insists on the need to reinvent financial mechanisms to meet the specific needs of the 21st century economy.
Finally, the Vice-President of the Commission defended a “Made in Europe” approach, encouraging the EU to be proud of its achievements and to promote sustainability. This could lead to a change in public purchasing criteria, with greater emphasis on sustainability and compliance with strict environmental standards.
Maroš Šefčovič also made it clear that Europe is ready to defend its industry and remain at the forefront of the clean energy transition for a more sustainable and resilient future. (Original version in French by Nithya Paquiry)