Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council, 09/12/2014, 9 December 2014

Council discusses follow-up action on the 2030 climate and energy framework

Meeting in Brussels on 9 December, EU energy ministers discussed the follow-up to the 2030 climate and energy framework following the European Council meeting in October. They also adopted conclusions on the completion of the EU internal energy market.

2030 framework

The Council held a policy debate on the 2030 climate and energy framework, as a follow-up to the European Council meeting in October 2014. The debate focused on the new governance process. This process will underpin the implementation of the framework and help ensure that the EU meets its energy policy goals.

In general, ministers consider that the new process will contribute to the consistency of EU climate and energy policies. However, they feel it should be kept as flexible as possible.

The Council also discussed energy indicators to monitor climate and energy policies. It was clear from the debate that further work will be needed to develop a common approach on this.

The incoming Latvian Presidency of the Council is preparing to hold further discussions on the 2030 framework. 

• 2030 framework for climate and energy policies (European Commission)

Internal energy market

The Council adopted conclusions on the completion of the internal energy market. The conclusions identify priority actions to help complete the internal energy market. In particular, they focus on:

• the adoption and implementation of network codes
• implementation of projects of common interest
• cooperation at EU level between national administrations, national regulatory authorities and network operators
• regional market integration, interconnections and cross-border cooperation
• increasing the awareness and involvement of consumers

• Internal energy market

Other topics on the agenda

Ministers discussed the energy aspects of the mid-term review of the Europe 2020 strategy, including possible new priorities.

• Europa 2020

The Council also adopted, without debate, its position at first reading on the draft directive on indirect land-use change (ILUC). The directive, which amends the fuel quality and renewable energy directives, aims to start a transition to biofuels that deliver substantial greenhouse gas savings.

The Council presidency and the Commission also briefed ministers on recent developments in the field of external energy relations.