Piebalgs calls for 'major effort' in meeting EU emissions targets

EU energy commissioner Andris Pielbags has countered criticism that smaller member states will struggle to meet new emissions targets.

The Latvia official said it would be “unfair” if the targets are met by some countries and not others.

The commission last week published a roadmap on how it expects states to achieve a 20 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2020.

Piebalgs’ comments come after Rudi Thomaes, CEO of the Federation of Enterprises in Belgium (FEB), voiced concern at the ability of countries like Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, which lack the same natural resources of a country such as Spain, to meet the targets.

The Belgian also said that the economies of smaller countries could be hit in trying to meet the targets.

But, speaking on Monday at the launch of EU Sustainable Energy Week, the commissioner said, “It would be unfair if our targets meant that the EU’s collective target would be met by an effort in some, but not all, member states.

“This is why the proposals build in flexibility. ‘Guarantees of origin’ will allow member states to meet their national targets in collaboration with other member states.”

He said, “Member states that do not have much sun or wind would be able to meet their target using ‘potential’ that might no be available domestically.

“This allows for a cheaper meeting of targets than would otherwise be possible.”

Piebalgs agreed with groups like FEB that heating and cooling “must make a significant contribution” to meeting renewable targets.

“The importance of this sector must, therefore, be fully recognised,” he said.

 He added, "I am delighted at the strong commitment the Slovenian presidency has shown to the energy climate agenda and we are in a good position to make progress.

"But our proposals will require major effort at all levels, by all member states."

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