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Think Tank Calls for Creation of New EU Energy Agency to Guide Climate Action

On September 4, Bruegel researchers recommended the establishment of a European Energy Agency, increased electrification efforts, and leadership in the negotiations on the 2040 climate target. These suggestions were made in a report to the incoming European Commission, aimed at helping the EU meet its 2050 climate neutrality goal. The researchers argue that a dedicated energy agency could provide critical data, enabling policymakers and investors to better navigate Europe’s energy transition, as "the pace of decarbonization has not been fast enough."

Think Tank Calls for Creation of New EU Energy Agency to Guide Climate Action

On September 4, Bruegel researchers recommended the establishment of a European Energy Agency, increased electrification efforts, and leadership in the negotiations on the 2040 climate target. These suggestions were made in a report to the incoming European Commission, aimed at helping the EU meet its 2050 climate neutrality goal. The researchers argue that a dedicated energy agency could provide critical data, enabling policymakers and investors to better navigate Europe's energy transition, as "the pace of decarbonization has not been fast enough."

Key proposals include boosting investments, particularly in energy grids and infrastructure. This aligns with warnings from the EU power sector, which in May cautioned that achieving net-zero emissions could be jeopardized unless 0.4% of the EU's GDP is directed toward upgrading electricity distribution systems.

Bruegel's advice also emphasizes the importance of protecting biodiversity, ensuring water security, improving resource efficiency, and reducing pollution. These priorities reflect the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent Strategic Dialogue for Agriculture announcement, which included increased funding for environmental initiatives and resources to implement the Nature Restoration Law.

Ariel Brunner, regional director at BirdLife Europe, responded to these developments, urging President von der Leyen to embrace and act on the proposals.

Bruegel researchers further urged the next energy, environment, and climate commissioners to lay the groundwork for a "Fit for 90" package. This would include policy measures to reduce CO2 emissions by 90% compared to 1990 levels and address emissions from agriculture and land use.

During a visit to Brussels on September 3, Portuguese Energy Minister Maria da Graça Carvalho stressed the importance of implementing existing directives on energy efficiency, renewables, and transport. "We have legislated on everything that can be thought of; now it is time to implement, transpose, and execute," she told Euronews.

Cornelia Maarfield, head of energy at Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe, called on the upcoming policy cycle to deliver ambitious measures for a "rapid, equitable, and sustainable transition from fossil fuels to 100% renewable energy by 2040."

"The new Commission must lead a transformative shift toward accelerated climate action," Maarfield emphasized, adding that this is crucial to securing an energy transition that aligns with scientific recommendations and benefits both people and the planet.