By 2050, most EU member states project in their long-term strategy (LTS) that a high proportion of their energy needs will be met by renewable energy sources, with nine countries aiming for 80% or more.

The EU requires member states to prepare and publish an LTS, outlining how they will achieve deep reductions in GHG emissions and reach climate neutrality. The deadline for member states to submit their initial LTS was 1 January 2020. While a few member states met the deadline, most submitted their strategies later.  Poland remains the only member state that has not yet published its LTS, while others have already released updated versions.

The four largest EU economies (France, Germany, Italy and Spain) project significant emission reductions in the coming years, though progress varies by sector. Agriculture is expected to see the least reduction.

Many member states highlight the need for significant R&D investment, especially in sectors such as CCUS, large-scale renewable energy integration, hydrogen, energy storage, and the transport sector. Several countries also expect climate policies to boost employment and GDP in the coming years.

Cullen International’s new benchmark summarises the long-term strategies of the 27 EU member states, focusing in particular on emissions reductions and renewable energy targets and projections.

For more information and access to the benchmark, please click on “Access the full content” - or on “Request access”, in case you are not subscribed to our Sustainability service.