ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on how the policy toolbox has evolved towards making energy more secure, affordable and sustainable. Unlike environmental measures decisions related to the energy mix were singled out for decision by unanimity. From the start, climate change and energy policies were inextricably linked because of the importance of the use of fossil fuels. The European Union (EU) first introduced a blending target in 2003 with the aim to reach a 5.75% share of renewable energy in the EU’s transport sector by 2010. A particular aspect of renewable energy policy is the promotion of biomass as a fuel. In analogy with biofuels, the 2018 Renewable Energy Directive introduces sustainability criteria for the first time. Integrated national energy and climate plans are at the core of the Energy Union Governance system. The concept of national integrated plans developed with regional and municipal authorities, as well as other stakeholders, is designed to help align policies and initiatives at all levels of governance.