The Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, recently organized a high-level conference in Brussels to discuss the future of the Energy Union. The conference provided an ideal platform to contemplate the key takeaways from the energy crisis and devise a roadmap for the future of EU energy policy, specifically focusing on energy security and the transition to clean energy.
The conference brought together representatives from EU countries, sectoral organizations, academia, and other stakeholders to discuss how Europe can become more resilient, clean, and competitive in the energy sector. Commissioner Simson emphasized the significance of regional collaboration and mutual support, which have allowed Europe to weather the adverse effects of the energy crisis in the past year.
In her speech, Commissioner Simson emphasized the need for a long-term vision that is resilient, clean, and competitive. The ongoing work by EU countries on the revision of their integrated National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) for the period 2021-2030 was also discussed. The NECPs will play a crucial role in defining a future for the EU’s energy sector that is both decarbonized and more secure.
Strategic planning, including the revision of NECPs, was highlighted by multiple participants as crucial for enhancing the EU’s energy security and maintaining affordable energy prices. The conference also included a series of three roundtables focusing on various aspects of the clean energy transition and building more resilience in the EU energy system. The Director-General of DG Energy, Ditte Juul Jørgensen, highlighted the need for strategic foresight and a shared vision when planning Europe’s common pathway towards a more secure, clean, and competitive energy future. She emphasized the importance of implementation and skills development in achieving these goals. Overall, the conference was a productive and insightful forum for discussing the future of the Energy Union beyond the crisis. It underscored the need for continued collaboration and shared vision to ensure a sustainable and resilient energy future for Europe.