Eastern European States

Stance on Fossil Fuels

Almost half of the Eastern European States are part of the EU, which pursues an ambitious agenda concerning fossil fuel reduction and market-based solutions to climate change. These plans include climate neutrality by 2050, with a mid-term for climate targets by 2030. The EU wants to speed up the way towards its goals regarding efficiency and renewable energy. Greenhouse gas emission developments in Member States show progress, but are not sufficient to reach the targeted 55% reduction. During COP 28, the EU presented its global pledge to expand renewable energy capacity and efficiency, which was recognised in the first Global Stocktake.[1] Eastern Partnership countries are also expected to show progress in carbon reduction goals, as green growth is in their top priorities. Georgia is working on hydropower in its mountains, while Azerbaijan remains traditionally dependent on its fossil fuel sector. Despite their carbon reduction efforts, they are behind on EU averages, mostly because of energy inefficiency, reliance on industry and underdeveloped recycling.

Fun fact: In cooperation with the US, Poland is working on the realisation of its plans for a nuclear energy power plant. The aim is to strengthen Central and Eastern Europe’s energy security and to contribute to its decarbonisation, while inducing economic growth and affordability of energy prices.