From heating to transport, energy is essential to everyday life, but also a major source of emissions. Read about EU solutions to decarbonize the sector, Economy.

Energy is the biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU, accounting for more than three quarters. It covers electricity production, heating and transport – all essential to everyday life. In order to reach the EU’s ambitious target of climate neutrality by 2050, emissions need to be drastically cut in the energy sector.

In 2021 gas and electricity have hit record prices. The EU is highly dependent on energy imports, especially when it comes to natural gas (90%) and oil (97%), making them vulnerable to disruptions that can increase prices. Better cooperation and interconnections of energy networks with the development of renewable energy sources can help EU countries secure energy supplies.

Better connections between EU countries

Connecting energy infrastructure between EU countries can help to secure a diverse supply of energy and better mitigate possible disruptions.

The EU is currently revising rules on the funding of cross-border energy infrastructure projects in order to meet its climate goals. Every two years, a list of key infrastructure projects is selected. These projects can benefit from simplified permits and the right to apply for EU funding.