European Union energy policy. Green Paper

According to the rapporteur, it was essential for the Union to establish a coherent energy policy. He hoped that a chapter on energy would be included in the Treaty on European Union and would take account of the environmental objectives. It was important to develop research in the area of renewable energy sources and to ensure that this area received the same funding as nuclear fusion. The rapporteur also highlighted the need for a policy on diversification of supply. The EU’s energy policy should strive for gradual liberalisation in accordance with a number of fundamental principles (competition, network access, price transparency, etc.). Finally, the rapporteur called for substantial aid for the CEECs in the field of nuclear security. Commissioner PAPOUTSIS outlined the three challenges facing the Union: the competitiveness of the energy sector, the security of installations and security of supply, and the need to protect the environment. In this respect, the Commissioner highlighted the Commission’s proposals to reduce CO₂ emissions and expressed his disappointment at the delays in their implementation. The Commissioner also emphasised the importance of cooperation with the CEECs and stated that he was in favour of Parliament’s involvement in the definition of the Union’s future energy policy.