EC seeks feedback on post-2020 renewables rules

The European Commission (EC) has launched a survey on what an EU regulatory framework on renewable energy should look like for the post-2020 period.

Current EU renewable energy rules are contained in the Renewable Energy Directive, which is designed to ensure that all EU countries meet their renewable energy target by 2020 and contribute to EU’s target of 20% share of renewables in overall energy consumption by 2020.

In October 2014 EU countries agreed to a new target of at least 27% renewables by 2030. In order to reach this target, and as part of the EU’s plans for Energy Union, a new Renewable Energy Directive, including a post-2020 framework, will be needed.

In its public consultation document, the Commission states that several areas in particular will need attention. These include:

• a new governance to ensure target is achieved at EU-level,
• measures to empower consumers on renewable energy solutions,
• cutting emissions in the heating and cooling sector,
• removing market entry barriers for renewables,
• boosting the use of renewables in the transport sector.

The consultation is open until February 10, 2016.