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Final NECPs show progress, but lack funding, enforcement and policy detail, analysis finds The European Commission has confirmed that EU Member States have “significantly closed the gap” toward meeting the bloc’s 2030 climate and energy targets through their final National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs). But a new assessment by NGOs warns that without urgent action, implementation of these plans could fail to deliver on climate pledges. The analysis, published today by CAN Europe and partners, concludes that many NECPs remain weak on ambition, financing, and enforcement, and risk undermining the EU’s 2040 climate goals. “Plans alone won’t reduce emissions,” said Brigitta Bozso, energy and climate expert at CAN Europe. “With only five years left, implementation must become the top priority.” The NGO report, EU climate goals at risk – NECPs’ ambitious implementation must close the gaps, found that just half the reviewed plans contained policy scenarios in line with the emissions reductions needed across sectors such as agriculture, transport, buildings, and waste. Most also fell short of energy efficiency targets, contributing to an EU-wide shortfall of 8.1% in energy savings, according to the Commission. Equally concerning, said the report, was a lack of clarity on how the transition will be financed, with few plans linking measures to funding sources. “It’s like setting a destination but forgetting to plan the route,” Bozso said. She added that stronger NECP implementation would also bring public benefits such as cleaner air, lower bills and new jobs, and called for “solid policies, secured funding, and inclusive engagement.” The report includes detailed recommendations and country profiles for 16 Member States. Among them, Germany was criticised for gaps in transport and buildings policy, while Czechia’s NECP was praised for feasibility but criticised for lacking clear policy action. In Bulgaria, experts warned that the plan failed to meet minimum EU requirements for land use and energy consumption, despite looking “relatively good on paper.” Member States must submit their national Social Climate Plans by the end of June, outlining how the EU Social Climate Fund will be used to support vulnerable communities during the transition. “Closing the remaining gaps will take coordinated effort,” said Bozso. “The European Commission and Member States must work together—urgently and decisively.” |
