EPP Group secures boost for renewable energies in Europe

Rapidly increased authorisation and permit-granting procedures to build solar, water, heat pump, biomass or wind energy facilities in the European Union are one result of an agreement the European Parliament and EU Member States reached last night on a major reform of the EU's Renewable Energy Directive. Steered by the European Parliament's Chief Negotiator for Renewable Energies, EPP Group MEP Markus Pieper, the EU's targets for renewable energies will be substantially increased. By 2030, 42.5% of the EU's final energy consumption shall come from renewable sources.

"I'm glad we made it. This Renewable Energy Directive brings more renewable energy, more climate protection and a simpler and faster rollout of renewable energies in Europe. This will bring us closer to the Paris climate goals and reduce our dependence on others. It will mean a massive boost for renewable energies in Europe. We will not only increase the share of renewables to 42.5%, but also substantially fasten authorisation and permit-granting processes for renewable energy facilities. This is a good day for Europe's energy transition", Pieper said.