ALTENER II: multiannual programme for the promotion of renewable energy sources (1998-2002)

The Committee adopted the draft recommendation for second reading regarding the Council's common position on the multi-annual programme (1998-2002): for the promotion of renewable energy sources ALTENER (rapporteur: Werner Langen (EPP-ED, D)).

This proposal under the codecision procedure is part of the framework programme for actions in the energy sector. Altener II had to be adopted for a provisional period of two years by means of a Council Decision of 18 May 1998.

Altener II accounts for 40% t of the funds available for a single programme under the energy framework programme. In connection with the Altener II programme the Committee reiterated Parliament's call for a Charter on Renewable Energies (EURENEW) to be drawn up. The financial framework for the Altener programme should be EUR 81,1 million for the period 1998-2002 (where the Council had proposed only 74 million) and 51,5 million for the period 2000-2002. Subject to amendments, the Committee will recommend that Parliament approves the common positions.