EU Member States have made significant strides towards the 2030 climate and energy goals, according to the European Commissions assessment of the National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs). They improved their plans following the Commissions recommendations in December 2023. This brings the EU closer to a collective 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, as outlined in the European Climate Law, and achieving a renewable energy share of at least 42.5%.
The Commissions evaluation shows the EU is on track to cut net greenhouse gas emissions by around 54% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels, provided Member States fully implement existing and planned national measures and EU policies. This illustrates the EUs steadfast commitment to climate goals, investing in clean energy transition, and prioritizing industrial competitiveness and the social dimension of the EU.
Strategic initiatives like the Clean Industrial Deal and the Affordable Energy Action Plan will complement NECPs by mobilizing investments in industrial decarbonization and clean technology, helping to stabilize energy prices.
Member States are showing political determination to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, improve energy supply resilience, and integrate the internal energy market through investments and skill development.
The Commissions assessment provides a foundation for further discussions on steps towards a climate-neutral EU by 2050. The Commission will work closely with Member States to address gaps and implement additional guidance.
Next Steps
The next phase focuses on transforming plans into action to ensure stability and predictability. This includes effectively using public funds, encouraging private investment, and coordinating efforts at regional and European levels. The Commission will support Member States efforts in implementation and addressing remaining gaps.
Member States that have not yet submitted their final plans, like Belgium, Estonia, and Poland, must do so promptly. While their targets are included in the EU assessment, the Commission will individually review their plans once formally submitted. Additionally, the Commission is reviewing Slovakias final NECP, submitted on 15 April 2025.
Background
The Governance Regulation of the Energy Union and Climate Action requires Member States to regularly submit NECPs, outlining how they intend to meet the 2030 climate and energy targets and Energy Union objectives. These plans are critical for a fair, resilient, and climate-neutral Europe and steer essential investments for the climate and energy transition. They were first finalized in 2020 but needed updates to reflect the agreed 2030 legislative package and targets, known as the Fit for 55 package.
Draft updated NECPs were due by 30 June 2023. The Commission published an EU-wide assessment, with country-specific assessments and recommendations, in December 2023. Taking these recommendations into account, Member States were required to submit their final NECPs by 30 June 2024.
The package published today includes an EU-wide assessment and a Staff Working Document, with individual assessments of 23 national plans and guidance to facilitate implementation.
NECPs as a governance tool will be reviewed for the post-2030 period as part of the upcoming revision of the Governance Regulation.
For more information
Communication: An EU-wide assessment of the final updated NECPs