Energy policies and strategies in the Euro-Mediterranean region

Key points

The EESC:

1. considers that the Mediterranean region will be disproportionally affected by climate change. As the energy sector is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the energy transition to zero carbon is of key importance;

2. underlines that the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean countries are not moving towards decarbonization at the same speed as the EU. The EU Green Deal could serve as inspiration and foster cooperation between the Northern and Southern shore of the Mediterranean;

3. reminds that the Mediterranean is endowed with significant renewable energy sources, especially regarding solar and wind power. These sources represent unparalleled opportunities for energy security and cooperation across the region;

4. stresses that the shifting from fossil-based energy to renewable energy has geographical, economic and social consequences that should be mitigated by the European Union;

5. insists that energy interconnections are crucial for developing and integrated energy system in the Euro-Mediterranean region, given the energy complementarities between the North and the South;

6. estimates that micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises could constitute an essential part of a new European energy strategy for the Euro-Mediterranean region.  

More information ? contact by email the External Relations secretariat