by
Martin Banks
The wide ranging White Paper, published on Wednesday and subject to review by heads of government, will have a significant impact on the way Europe generates its power from 2020 onwards.
The Commission says it wants to give clarity to investors in renewable energy while at the same time maintaining their leadership role in global climate negotiations.
A critical part of that is the headline figure on emissions cuts. The target that was set for 2020 was 20% but the EU as a group had almost reached the goal by 2012.
Green groups have said the new targets lack ambition and the 40% emissions cut is "dangerously low".
But Edward Davey, the UK´s Secretary of State Energy and Climate Change, said, "The proposals are a step in the right direction towards an ambitious emissions reduction target for Europe. They provide the flexibility to tackle climate change in the most cost-effective way, so that British consumers aren’t paying over the odds to go green.
"This package backs the green growth agenda I’ve been working for with other European colleagues.
“A 40% GHG target for Europe is a good start which the UK fought hard for, and will lead to massive investment in low carbon energy, including many more renewables.
“Yet Britain has been clear that Europe must be ready to adopt a 50% target if the rest of the world is prepared to sign an ambitious global climate deal in 2015.
Elsewhere, Paul Dickinson, executive chairman of the group, CDP, said, “The need for ambitious leadership on emissions reduction has never been so strong. The science is clear – we must stay within a 2 degree Celsius temperature rise if we are to avoid the catastrophic impacts of climate change and to achieve this we need deep cuts in emissions."
He added, "CDP welcomes the proposed EU greenhouse gas target of a 40% reduction on 1990 levels, although it still needs to go further."
Further response came from UK Liberal MEP Fiona Hall who welcomed the EU-wide renewables target, saying, "The 40% target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions represents a positive outcome for those of us who wish to see the EU lead in the global fight against climate change."
"I also welcome the setting of a binding EU-wide target for renewables that will help drive innovation, investment and green jobs. However, I believe a 27% is too low and I hope that MEPs and member states will raise this."
"On energy efficiency, I now hope that the Commission listens to the position adopted by the European Parliament last week and comes forward with an ambitious target following its upcoming review."
By: N. Peter Kramer
