Clean energy strategy
In 2016 the Commission presented a comprehensive research, innovation and competitiveness strategy, which supports the objectives of the energy union.
This strategy is outlined in the Accelerating Clean Energy Innovation Communication adopted as part of the Clean energy for all Europeans package, where research and innovation is recognised as a driver for the three overarching goals
- energy efficiency first
- Europe as a global leader in renewables
- a fair deal for consumers
The Communication includes 20 measures focusing on what the EU can do to correct the market failure by regulations to give policy signals and mobilise private investment. It also shows how the EU can set the direction with European public funding.
The research and innovation actions of this strategy are supported by two specific initiatives
European Green Deal and Horizon Europe
Clean energy will be critical to reach climate objectives as part of the European Green Deal.
The full range of instruments available under the EU's next research and innovation programme - Horizon Europe - will also support the research and innovation efforts needed to achieve climate neutrality.
Energy innovation will play a key role in delivering on the Horizon Europe Mission area climate-neutral and smart cities.
REPowerEU
REPowerEU is our plan for more affordable, secure and sustainable energy. Research and innovation activities are contributing to accelerating the clean energy transition for more affordable, secure and sustainable energy by 2030, in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal.
Currently, only half of the technologies necessary to achieve full decarbonisation are ready for the market. Research and innovation activities will support new and existing technology solutions to become market-ready, in particular for green hydrogen and solar energy.
The Commission will top-up Horizon Europe investments in the Hydrogen Joint Undertaking to double the number of Hydrogen Valleys by 2025 and will support skills through ERASMUS+ and the Joint Undertaking on Clean Hydrogen, with the launch of a large project to develop skills for the hydrogen economy.
The Commission will also develop and implement strategic research and innovation agendas with EU countries on Green Hydrogen and Solar energy technology and secure funding in Horizon Europe among others.
Bioenergy can contribute significantly to the REPowerEU goals by ensuring security of energy supply and reducing dependency on fossil fuels imports. For example, biomethane is named a priority for the diversification of EU gas supplies by increasing domestic biomethane production to 35 billion cubic meters per year by 2030.
The EU Mission on Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities will play a crucial role in realising energy savings in buildings.
Related links
2030 climate and energy framework
Horizon Europe
The EU's research and innovation funding programme 2021-2027
European Green Deal
Europe will become the world’s first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Research and innovation are driving this transformation.