The Commission credited the progress to increased efforts by member states, particularly in the energy sector. In 2023, renewables accounted for 24% of the EU's energy consumption, with most countries now aligned with the 2030 target of reaching a 42.5% renewable energy share.

"Emissions are down 37% since 1990, while the economy has grown nearly 70%," said EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra, highlighting that climate action and economic growth can go hand in hand. He urged countries to maintain momentum and stressed that investing in clean technology and innovation is crucial for maintaining industrial competitiveness and expanding into global markets.

Agriculture, Transport Lag Behind

Despite this progress, several sectors—including agriculture and transport—are falling behind on emissions reductions. The Commission also called out Belgium, Estonia, and Poland for failing to submit their updated NECPs, urging them to "do so without delay."

Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen welcomed the overall progress but warned against complacency. "We have reasons to be proud, although we cannot be satisfied. We've come a long way, but we're not where we need to be yet," he said.

The EU's 2030 emissions goal is among the most ambitious of any major economy, and the Commission is already preparing to propose a new 2040 target, potentially aiming as high as a 90% reduction.

Civil Society Warns of Implementation Gaps

While the Commission's assessment points to strong progress, civil society groups remain concerned about the gap between planning and implementation. Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe said many updated NECPs still lack the concrete policies and financial backing necessary to meet the targets.

"The EU's 2030 climate and energy targets are clearly achievable," said Giulia Nardi, climate policy expert at CAN Europe. "But without effective national policies and credible financing—both of which are largely lacking in the updated plans—implementation will fall short."

A coalition of NGOs from eight member states—including France, Germany, and Italy—is urging the Commission to take legal action against their governments, arguing that shortcomings in the NECPs represent not just policy failures but potential breaches of EU law. They say member states are legally obligated to deliver climate action, and the Commission must enforce these requirements.

Public Participation Still Limited

Campaigners also criticised the lack of public participation in drafting the national plans. CAN Europe noted that citizen involvement has been weak or absent in many countries, undermining the democratic legitimacy and long-term success of climate strategies.

"National climate plans are only as strong as the processes implementing them," Nardi added. "By sidelining public participation and failing to establish clear accountability mechanisms, governments are weakening the foundation of their climate commitments."