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Renewable energy in the EU
Europe's key instrument to achieving energy independence and increasing competitiveness lies in the energy transition and, specifically, in boosting the generation capacity of renewable sources of energy. Following the European Green Deal and 'fit for 55' initiatives, the EU legislative framework for achieving this is largely in place. Significant progress has been made, in particular since the launch of the REPowerEU initiative in May 2022 in the wake of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. ...
PETI Fact-finding visit to Almaraz and Cabañeros, Spain 16-18 February 2026 On the closure of a nuclear power plant in Almaraz and to the Cabañeros National Park
Petition 0445/2025 on the closure of a nuclear power plant in Almaraz, Spain Petition 0819/2024 and Petition 1334/2024 concerning the environmental damage to Cabañeros National Park resulting from the ban on the hunting of ungulates
Quantum technologies: Can they boost Europe's decarbonisation?
Quantum technologies have transformative potential and are already exerting a significant impact on global economies and society. The European Union (EU) supports the development of these technologies through initiatives such as the Quantum Flagship and Horizon Europe, as well as through national initiatives and programmes. However, the specific role of quantum technologies in supporting the EU's energy and climate goals has so far received limited and fragmented policy attention. This briefing explores ...
Optimal pathways to consistent biomethane and bioethanol supply in Europe
This briefing examines the role of biomethane and bioethanol in Europe’s energy transition, focusing on where these fuels are produced, their end-uses, and how policy frameworks shape their uptake. Biomethane, a renewable gas that can be injected into existing gas grids and is mainly used in heating and transport, and bioethanol, a renewable liquid fuel with a relevant role in road transport and industrial applications, rely on different feedstocks, technologies and infrastructures. Yet, both offer ...
Monthly Highlights: Research digest for committees - February 2026
The European grids package: Guidance on contracts for difference and grid connections
Modernising the EU's energy infrastructure is of paramount importance for increasing the EU's competitiveness, ensuring the security of energy supply and achieving the EU's energy and climate targets. The rapid roll-out of renewable energy sources across the EU needs to be accompanied by a timely upgrade of the electricity grids to enable their seamless integration into the EU's energy system. Investment needs are estimated at over €1 trillion by 2040. There are also significant regulatory issues ...
Nuclear decommissioning assistance programme of the Ignalina nuclear power plant in Lithuania
As part of its sectoral proposals within the EU's long-term budget for the 2028-2034 period, the European Commission presented a proposal for a Council Regulation establishing the nuclear decommissioning assistance programme of the Ignalina nuclear power plant in Lithuania for 2028-2034. The Ignalina programme aims to assist Lithuania in managing the radiological safety challenges of decommissioning the nuclear power plant. It also aims to create knowledge for EU Member States and third countries ...
Air Pollution in the European Union
This study, commissioned by the Policy Department for Citizens, Equality and Culture for the Committee on Petitions of the European Parliament, provides an analysis of the current legislative framework on ambient air quality, highlights the most relevant case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union concerning air quality, and examines selected infringement procedures and petitions. The study identifies best practices for air protection among Member States and offers policy recommendations ...
Energia nucleare
L'energia nucleare è un'alternativa a basse emissioni di carbonio rispetto ai combustibili fossili e rappresenta circa il 25 % dell'energia elettrica prodotta nell'UE. Tuttavia, in seguito al disastro di Chernobyl del 1986 e alla catastrofe del 2011 a Fukushima, l'energia nucleare è diventato un tema molto controverso. Mentre gli Stati membri possono decidere se includere l'energia nucleare nel loro mix energetico, la legislazione dell'UE è intesa a migliorare gli standard di sicurezza delle centrali ...
Guidelines for trans-European energy infrastructure: Revision of the TEN-E Regulation
Timely, cost-efficient expansion and modernisation of the European energy infrastructure is one of the key challenges in the EU's ongoing energy transition. Grid development is needed to ensure energy supply security, increase the resilience of Europe's energy system and integrate the rapid roll-out of renewable energy sources. Cross border infrastructure plays a vital role in connecting national energy networks. Meeting the 2030 interconnection targets is particularly important for completing the ...