The Commission Releases EU-Wide Assessment of Final NECPs: 2030 Targets Within Reach, but Gaps Remain

The European Commission’s 27 May 2025 assessment of the final National Energy & Climate Plans (NECPs) shows that the EU is on track – but still falling short – of its 2030 energy and climate goals:

• Greenhouse gases: projected -54% by 2030 vs. 1990 levels (just below the -55% target).
• Renewables: expected to hit 42.6%, aligning with the ≥42.5% binding target (aspirational goal: 45%).
• Energy efficiency: ambition remains low—final energy consumption only 8.1% below baseline, well under the required 11.7%.

✅ The plans show real progress—rising renewable capacity, strengthened decarbonisation measures, and improved investment estimates.

⚠️ But key shortfalls persist:

• Buildings and transport need extra electrification and efficiency.
• Land-based carbon sinks lag by ~45–60 Mt CO₂.
• Social dimensions (energy poverty, vulnerable groups) need stronger integration.
• Fossil-fuel subsidies linger without clear phase-out plans.
• Adaptation strategies and funding mobilization remain weak.

🛠️ Next steps include accelerated implementation, the European Grid Package, Electrification Action Plan (2026), and tighter governance to ensure these national ambitions become reality.