What the EU does
Energy policy is critical for European competitiveness and security and to achieving climate neutrality. It is a shared competence between the EU and its member countries, defined in Article 194 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.
The EU’s main energy policy objectives are to ensure reliable, affordable and clean energy for people and businesses in Europe.
Among other measures, we’re working to achieve this through
- maintaining secure energy supplies
- supporting the competitiveness of Europe’s clean tech industry
- promoting clean and sustainable energy production
- prioritising energy efficiency in all stages of the energy chain, from generation to final consumption
- leading international discussions on the global energy transition
Expected outcomes
Areas of action
Find out more about EU actions to increase the share of renewable energy in Europe
Energy is a valuable resource. Learn how the EU ensures we can make the most efficient use of it
Explore the rules shaping the EU’s energy markets and protecting and empowering consumers
How does the EU secure reliable energy supplies for EU citizens and businesses?
Grids are the backbone of the EU’s energy systems. Find out how the EU is strengthening and expanding our grids
Promoting research and innovation is key to achieving the energy transition and improving competitiveness. Find out what the EU does
From ensuring nuclear safety to supporting the use of radiation and nuclear technologies in medicine, explore the EU’s nuclear energy policy
Find out how the EU acts as a global energy leader
Learn about the EU’s efforts to reduce energy-related CO2 and methane emissions
Discover the EU’s policies and local initiatives to ensure a just energy transition that leaves no one behind
Key achievements
- Through the promotion of wind, solar, and other renewable energy sources, renewable energy represented 24.6% of EU energy consumption in 2023. This is a significant share, and a much higher outcome than 10 years prior. However, there is still work to be done to achieve the 42.5% target by 2030.
- Companies in the renewable energy sector are thriving, supporting green job creation. By 2022, the renewable energy sector in Europe employed over 1.6 million people.
- Investments in cross-border energy infrastructure have helped strengthen EU energy security, including by connecting several EU regions which were completely isolated.
- Between 2008 and 2021, the EU reduced greenhouse gas emissions by over 20%. At the same time, EU GDP increased by almost 10%. With the energy sector being responsible for more than 75% of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions, EU energy policies have significantly contributed to this achievement.
- To achieve the 2030 energy efficiency target, the EU has introduced measures in policy areas with the greatest potential for energy savings and where a harmonised approach across EU countries is needed. Such measures not only lower energy bills, but also help businesses save on operational costs, while reducing the carbon footprint.
In focus
Energy prices impact both the quality of life for citizens and the competitiveness of industries in Europe and our economy. Thanks to our joint efforts, Europe’s energy system has remained resilient despite global market disruptions.
The European Commission is taking immediate action to help EU countries support consumers and companies, including the most vulnerable in society and sectors struggling the most.
Events
The Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen, will host the European Energy Efficiency Financing Coalition Assembly, which will gather high-level representatives from EU countries, financial institutions, industry and the Commission.
The Implementation Dialogue with Dan Jørgensen, Commissioner for Energy and Housing, will bring together stakeholders in Brussels to discuss the implementation of the Energy Efficiency Directive.
This page was last updated on 22 April 2026