New EU energy plan - more security, less pollution

The European commission wants to improve energy‑supply security in Europe while combating climate change and making the industry more competitive. To this end, it has tabled proposals to pave the way for a common European energy policy.

The proposals include a cut in CO2 emissions by at least 20% by 2020.
The commission will propose increasing the use of renewable energy sources, to limit global temperature changes to no more than 2°C above pre-industrial levels.
It also wants to improve the EU’s energy efficiency by 20%. This would make Europe the most energy‑efficient region in the world.
Commission president Barroso also stressed the need for the EU to speak with one voice in dealing with its energy partners.
The commission therefore proposes to develop a coordinated approach to energy issues and to introduce effective energy‑sharing mechanisms to deal rapidly with any future supply crises.
With the liberalisation of electricity and gas markets by 2009, the EU’s energy sector should also become more competitive. The commission proposes a clearer separation of energy production from distribution. "A recent investigation on competition has shown that the status quo is not an option," Mr Barroso said.