Europe has decided to launch the construction of gigafactories to produce batteries at high volumes to reindustrialize our continent and enhance our strategic autonomy. Yet, these projects focus on lithium batteries and to a great extent neglect the emerging technology of sodium batteries.
Sodium is present everywhere in Europe at a low cost, and desalinisation projects linked to an EU Blue Deal would increase this availability. The potential of a sodium battery manufacturing sector is therefore extremely interesting from both a competitive and sustainability point of view.
Download — Opinia Sekcji: Enhancing EU strategic autonomy and developing a greener and bluer economy: the potential of the sodium battery manufacturing sector
The opinion focuses on the proposal for a new funding programme on Single Market and Customs for the period 2028-2034. With € 6.2 billion (double the funding compared to the current long-term EU budget), the reinforced Single Market and Customs Programme will combine several previously standalone programmes (Single Market Programme, Customs, Customs Control Equipment Instrument, Fiscalis and the Union Anti-Fraud Programme) into one coherent strategy that should preserve EU economic security.
Download — Opinia Sekcji: Single Market and Customs Programme 2028-2034
The proposal establishes the tenth Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, Horizon Europe, a key instrument for delivering the policy ambitions outlined in the Commission’s proposal for the next long-term EU budget (2028–2034) and the political priorities for 2024–2029. It places research and innovation at the heart of the Union’s economy and investment strategy, promotes simplicity and flexibility, enabling faster and more strategic EU spending through clearer rules and more transparent procedures for applicants and stakeholders.
In line with the European Commission President’s political guidelines, the initiative will aim to boost new industrial uses of AI and improve public services’ delivery, fostering innovation and competitiveness.
Download — Opinia Sekcji: Apply AI Strategy – strengthening the AI continent
The Cyprus Presidency has asked the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) to draw up an exploratory opinion aimed at analysing how affordable housing initiatives can integrate measures to reduce energy costs for families and support vulnerable households.
W toku (updated on 07/01/2026) - Bureau decision date: 02/12/2025
This opinion explores the potential of the bioeconomy and how policies can ensure its long-term competitiveness and investment security, while safeguarding nature. It will present civil society's views on further goals which include increasing resource-efficient and circular use of biological resources, securing a sustainable supply of biomass, both within the EU and from international sources, and strengthening the EU’s position in the rapidly expanding global bioeconomy.
W toku (updated on 06/01/2026) - Bureau decision date: 22/10/2025
