Energy Winter Package: Chambers call for more market and more Europe

01 December 2016
by eurochambres -- last modified 01 December 2016

In reaction to the Energy Winter Package, EUROCHAMBRES welcomes the European Commission's push for a more market-driven and coherent European response to the challenges caused by the transition of the EU energy markets. It is now up to Member States to think out of their national boxes and effectively implement the Commission’s proposals.

The Commission has rightly understood that we need more market principles and less state interventions, as well as more European coordination and less borders to the free flow of electricity," stated Arnaldo Abruzzini, CEO of EUROCHAMBRES.  "Applying market principles will keep costs down and ensure that the energy transition remains accepted by the public."

For the sake of security of supply and cost-effectiveness, it is also important to continue working towards the completion of the internal electricity market.  The significant differences in electricity retail prices across Europe and the persisting isolation of power markets prove that this goal is far from being achieved.

On a critical note, EUROCHAMBRES expected more ambition from the Commission on common rules for the expansion and the support of renewables and would have preferred to maintain the indicative 27% energy efficiency target for 2030.  A 30% compulsory ceiling risks hampering economic growth.  Chambers thus call for additional flanking support measures, especially targeted towards small and medium enterprises.

EUROCHAMBRES – The Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry represents over 20 million businesses in Europe – 98% of which are SMEs – through members in 43 countries and a network of 1700 regional and local Chambers.

EUROCHAMBRES