EU states give final approval to increase renewable energy share

Brussels, 9 October (CTK correspondent) – By 2030, the European Union should produce 42.5 percent of its total energy consumption from renewable sources. The necessary directive was given final approval today by the Council of the EU, representing the member states of the current 27-member bloc. MEPs approved the proposal in mid-September.

The current target, set in 2018, put the share of renewable sources at 32 percent. The new directive raises this target to 42.5 percent by 2030, while recommending that member states aim for as much as 45 percent. „This is a major achievement under the Fit for 55 package, which will help achieve the EU’s climate target of reducing the bloc’s emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030,“ said Spanish Environment Minister Teresa Ribera. Spain currently holds the EU presidency. „It is a step forward that will help achieve the EU’s climate target in a fair, cost-effective and competitive way,“ she added.