Member of the Eerste Kamer Robert van Gasteren (BBB) and member of the Tweede Kamer Joris Thijssen (GroenLinks-PvdA) participated in an interparliamentary conference (IPC) in Warsaw on April 13 and 14 about Zero-emission energy production: towards EUs competitiveness and security. The IPC Zero-emission energy production: towards a competitive and secure EU took place as part of the parliamentary dimension of the Polish presidency of the European Union. Representatives from the national parliaments of the European Union and the European Parliament engage in discussions about European topics during an IPC.
The day was opened by Stanisław Gawłowski, chairman of the Climate and Environment Committee of the Polish Senate. In his opening speech, he indicated that the European Union has set the pace in climate policy for years. Due to the strong economies within the EU, he believes there is a responsibility on member states to assist other countries. Gawłowski also addressed the consequences of the war in Ukraine and other geopolitical developments. According to him, these events underscore the importance of energy independence.
Marzena Czarnecka, the Polish Minister of Climate and Energy, emphasized the importance of clean and affordable energy for the further development of the Polish industry. Three main themes were then discussed, each highlighting an important aspect of current climate and energy policy. These themes formed the common thread of the conversations and discussions.
Session 1: Competitiveness Compass and a Clean Industrial Deal
Milosz Motyka, Secretary of State for Climate and Environment in Poland, opened the session on a positive note: he stated that the EU can be proud of the measures that have already been taken. At the same time, he emphasized that resilience is essential; not only in relation to a single crisis but regarding multiple, simultaneous challenges. He said that Europe must remain strong and that reindustrialization is necessary to maintain that strength. He advocated for more recycling, greater independence—particularly in light of the war in Ukraine—and a focus on economic cooperation. He concluded with the call: Let us be strong in our diversity.
Following this, a debate took place in which fifteen parliamentarians from different EU member states spoke. In this exchange, various national perspectives on the theme were shared and discussed.
Session 2: A Clean Industrial Deal for the EUs Energy Production
Jerzy Buzek, former Prime Minister of Poland and former President of the European Parliament, spoke about the significant changes in climate policy over the past 15 years. Buzek warned of a crisis of trust between the EU and the US, which complicates cooperation. The EU must shorten its supply chains to become more energy independent. He emphasized that stable energy prices are essential, not only for industry but also for national security. The EU spends 2.4% of its budget on fossil fuels, but only 1.9% on defense. That must be reversed, Buzek stated.
Michal Jaros, Minister of Economic Development and Technology, stated that legislation must be relaxed to facilitate a faster transition to clean energy. He outlined three conditions for a successful transition: energy prices must be attractive, bureaucracy must be reduced, and regulations must be simplified.
Iwona Gawłowska, Minister of Industry in Poland, added that the energy transition is not only a response to the climate crisis but also an opportunity to strengthen Europes competitive position. After the session, another debate followed, in which Joris Thijssen spoke on behalf of the Tweede Kamer.
Session 3: Zero-Emission Energy Production for the EU Security
Malgorzata Bartosik, Vice-CEO of WindEurope, began the session with a call to work together towards a Europe that is safe, competitive, and independent. She emphasized the importance of avoiding disinformation, especially spread by Russia. Bartosik explained that old wind turbines have been replaced by new, more efficient models over the past twenty years. She spoke about an example where nine new turbines produce as much energy as 89 old ones. She pointed out that both wind and solar energy are essential for Europes future and that 85% of EU citizens support wind energy. According to her, wind farms can only be successfully developed if they are constructed correctly, with the involvement of local communities.
Wojciech Wrochna, Secretary of State for Industry in Poland, advocated for the establishment of an energy union based on mutual trust and flexibility among member states. He stated that Europe can only secure its long-term energy needs by working together. During the last debate of the day, Senator Robert van Gasteren spoke about the changed geopolitical situation. A strong Europe is needed where an integrated approach can best address the diversity of problems.