Overview
This report reviews parliamentary questions (PQs) published during the timeframe of 28.06.2026 to 05.07.2026. The 31 documents covered span a wide array of policy areas central to the European energy transition and economic security. Key themes include the ongoing deployment of wind, solar, and other renewable sources, alongside the necessary expansion of energy infrastructure and grids. Additionally, MEPs heavily scrutinised financing mechanisms, carbon markets, and the regulatory environment governing national plans and permitting. The resilience of European industry, innovation in supply chains, and broader energy security concerns—particularly in light of the Middle East crisis and external dependencies—also feature prominently. In total, this report covers 31 PQs, of which 15 have been answered by the Commission and 16 remain pending.
❓ Construction of a photovoltaic park in Preveza
In E-002458/2026, submitted on 15 June 2026, Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI) raised concerns regarding the planned construction of a 1,000-acre photovoltaic park in Kamarina, Preveza. The MEP questioned the Commission on its stance towards local opposition, arguing that the project endangers residents, the environment, and historical monuments, while primarily serving the profitability of ‘green’ business groups under the European Green Deal. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ The western Black Sea in the EU’s new strategy
In E-002427/2026, submitted on 11 June 2026, Ioan-Rareş Bogdan (PPE) inquired about the EU’s new Coastal Communities Strategy and its application to the western Black Sea. The core question focuses on how funding mechanisms will address the region’s specific vulnerabilities, such as coastal erosion and the high costs of adapting port infrastructure for offshore wind energy, particularly near the Danube Delta. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Increased use of fossil fuels due to wind energy underperformance
In E-002561/2026, submitted on 22 June 2026, Mathilde Androuët (PfE) challenged the EU’s reliance on intermittent renewable sources. Highlighting a reported 7% increase in fossil fuel electricity production in early 2025 due to drops in wind and hydropower output, the MEP asked how the Commission reconciles this with its decarbonisation goals and whether it intends to pivot towards stable, dispatchable energy sources like nuclear. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Risk to residents and the environment from the wind farm on Mount Othrys
In E-002468/2026, submitted on 16 June 2026, Kostas Papadakis (NI) highlighted local opposition to a planned 21-turbine wind farm on the Gerakovouni peak of Mount Othrys, a Natura 2000 protected area. The MEP asked the Commission to address concerns that such renewable energy investments destroy natural habitats for corporate profit while failing to alleviate high energy costs for citizens. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Grid Connection Network Codes
In E-000240/2026, submitted prior to 26 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the core question concerned the timeline and updates for the Grid Connection Network Codes. In a response on 26 June 2026, Commissioner Jørgensen clarified that the Commission is focusing on Regulation (EU) 2016/631 regarding generator requirements, aiming to launch the comitology process in mid-2026. The Commissioner added that interim updates are not expected, as the process is already underway and guidance has been published to address grid connection queues safely.
❗ Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) financing and support
In E-001669/2026, submitted prior to 26 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the inquiry addressed the economic assessment and implementation of the Great Sea Interconnector. In a response on 26 June 2026, Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed that the GSI is a Project of Common Interest and an identified Energy Highway. He noted that while Cypriot and Greek authorities have requested the European Investment Bank to undertake a due diligence assessment for potential financing, the Commission has not been asked to participate, though it remains committed to fast-tracking such projects via the Grids Package.
❓ Reform of the EU Emissions Trading System and investment certainty
In P-002697/2026, submitted on 30 June 2026, Andreas Glück (Renew) raised concerns about the upcoming revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS). The MEP asked how the Commission plans to structure the reform to maintain a reliable carbon-price signal, ensuring that companies which have already made early investments in climate-neutral technologies are not structurally disadvantaged or deterred by market instability. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Mass redundancies in Upper Silesia and the Just Transition Fund
In E-002543/2026, submitted on 19 June 2026, Marcin Sypniewski (ESN) questioned the effectiveness of the Just Transition Fund (JTF) in Silesia. Citing recent mass layoffs at Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa and the Stellantis factory, the MEP asked if the Commission plans to audit the JTF’s job-creation impact, investigate the region’s accelerated deindustrialisation, and make the fund’s budget more flexible to combat structural unemployment. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Fiscal framework flexibility for energy investments
In P-001480/2026, submitted prior to 26 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the core question addressed the fiscal rules surrounding state support during energy crises. In a response on 26 June 2026, Executive Vice-President Dombrovskis highlighted the AccelerateEU Communication’s goal of providing targeted, temporary relief while preserving the credibility of the EU fiscal framework. He noted that on 3 June 2026, the Commission proposed a targeted broadening of the national escape clause for defence spending to accommodate investments reducing dependence on fossil fuels, capped at 0.3% of GDP per year.
❓ Revision of the EU Emissions Trading System – provisions for aviation
In E-002500/2026, submitted on 17 June 2026, Johan Van Overtveldt (ECR) queried the pending expiration of the ‘stop-the-clock’ derogation for aviation under the EU ETS at the end of 2026. The MEP asked how the Commission intends to handle the potential automatic extension of the ETS to extra-EEA flights before the revision is finalised, warning of possible conflicts with international CORSIA commitments and the risk of trade disputes. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Future expansion of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
In E-002504/2026, submitted on 17 June 2026, Pierre Jouvet (S&D) addressed the asymmetry in the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which covers raw steel and aluminium but not processed products (e.g., heat pumps, tyres). The MEP asked if the Commission has assessed the negative impact on the competitiveness of European manufacturers and whether it plans to expand the CBAM scope to include processed products. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Permitting challenges and the need for a comprehensive ‘Permitting Omnibus’
In P-001551/2026, submitted on 15 April 2026, Wouter Beke (PPE) asked if the Commission would propose a comprehensive ‘Permitting Omnibus’ to systematically address horizontal barriers in EU environmental legislation. In a response on 3 July 2026, Commissioner Roswall pointed to the Commission’s proposal for speeding up environmental assessments via digital portals and shorter deadlines. She noted the ongoing stress testing of the acquis and reiterated the Commission’s intention to work with co-legislators on a cross-sectoral approach while maintaining environmental protections.
❗ Deterioration of a Natura 2000 site in Achlada and ETS-CBAM effectiveness
In P-001876/2026, submitted on 6 May 2026, Maria Zacharia (NI) raised alarms over extensive lignite mining near the Natura 2000 site in Achlada, Greece, and the export of this lignite to North Macedonia for electricity production, which is then re-imported. In a response on 3 July 2026, Commissioner Roswall stated that ensuring compliance with the Habitats Directive is primarily a national responsibility, though the Commission previously sent Greece a letter of formal notice in 2025. Regarding carbon leakage, she clarified that the CBAM methodology accounts for the emission intensity of electricity produced in third countries, mitigating the risk.
❓ Volkswagen Group blocking real-time EV charging data
In E-002465/2026, submitted on 16 June 2026, Bruno Tobback (S&D) highlighted that the Volkswagen Group has allegedly restricted users from accessing free, real-time charging data from their electric vehicles, citing cybersecurity, while offering the data for a fee. The MEP asked if this practice breaches the EU Data Act and what enforcement actions the Commission will take. A response from the Commission is pending.
Aviation Fuels (ReFuelEU)
❗ ReFuelEU Aviation flexibility amid fuel shortages
In E-001676/2026, submitted prior to 25 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the inquiry focused on the availability and affordability of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). In a response on 25 June 2026, Commissioner Tzitzikostas highlighted that the Commission has established a Fuel Observatory to monitor supplies. He noted that guidance was issued in May 2026 detailing how airlines can be exempted from refuelling obligations during shortages, adding that temporary legislative changes could be proposed if the Middle East crisis worsens.
❗ Enforcement of the ReFuelEU Aviation mandate
In P-002091/2026, submitted prior to 29 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the core question addressed the uniform application of the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation. In a response on 29 June 2026, Commissioner Tzitzikostas confirmed the Commission is closely monitoring national penalty systems, having launched infringement procedures against 13 Member States in June 2026. He also noted that a targeted revision of renewable hydrogen production criteria is being prepared to avoid delays in the eSAF market ramp-up.
❗ Inclusion of the alcohol-to-jet sector in the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation
In E-002078/2026, submitted on 20 May 2026, Valérie Devaux (Renew) asked if the Commission plans to introduce a specific sub-target for alcohol-to-jet (AtJ) technology and expand the list of eligible raw materials for SAF production. In a response on 1 July 2026, Commissioner Tzitzikostas stated that while the AtJ pathway is recognised as an advanced biofuel, the ReFuelEU regulation remains technologically neutral and prioritises total SAF volumes over specific sub-targets. He added that the list of eligible feedstocks is dynamic and recently expanded via Delegated Directive (EU) 2024/1405.
❓ Demand for grain-oriented electrical steel (GOES)
In E-002529/2026, submitted on 18 June 2026, Lukas Mandl (PPE) raised the issue of Europe’s dependency on imported grain-oriented electrical steel, a critical component for transformers and grid infrastructure. The MEP asked what initiatives the Commission is taking to strengthen domestic production capacity, ensure reliable imports, and promote research to meet the technical demands of the energy transition. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Mechanism to restrict copper waste and scrap exports
In E-002508/2026, submitted on 17 June 2026, Thomas Pellerin-Carlin (S&D) highlighted the strategic importance of copper for the energy and digital transitions. Noting the activation of an EU surveillance system for metal waste exports, the MEP asked if the Commission plans to propose a binding mechanism to restrict or tax copper scrap exports to third countries to secure supply for European recyclers. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ New Caledonian nickel industry and strategic autonomy
In E-002537/2026, submitted on 18 June 2026, André Rougé and several other MEPs (PfE) addressed the crisis in the New Caledonian nickel sector. Emphasising Europe’s heavy reliance on Chinese and Indonesian nickel, the MEPs asked if the Commission will support the French territory’s industry through strategic stockpiling under the Critical Raw Materials Act, and if steps are being taken to counter Indonesian nickel produced without strict ESG compliance. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Support for the EU steel sector and industrial competitiveness
In E-001537/2026, submitted prior to 1 July 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the inquiry focused on protecting industrial employment and competitiveness. In a response on 1 July 2026, Executive Vice-President Séjourné outlined various measures, including the Innovation Fund and the proposed Industrial Accelerator Act. He also highlighted the new Competitiveness Compass, the Clean Industrial Deal, and a new trade measure entering into force on 1 July 2026 to protect the EU steel market from global overcapacity.
❓ Exclusion of EU manufacturers from public procurement based on ownership
In E-002414/2026, submitted on 11 June 2026, Sofie Eriksson and Adnan Dibrani (S&D) questioned Article 11 of the draft Industrial Acceleration Act. The MEPs asked if the Commission intends to exclude companies operating and manufacturing within the EU—such as electric vehicle producers—from public procurement solely because they are controlled by entities from third countries without an EU market access agreement, and whether this undermines European competitiveness. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Development and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs)
In E-002408/2026, submitted on 11 June 2026, Sophie Wilmès and a large cross-party group of MEPs (Renew, PPE, S&D) welcomed the Commission’s new strategy on small modular reactors. The MEPs requested details on concrete actions to operationalise the technology by the 2030s, how the announced EUR 200 million€200MCited figure InvestEU top-up will be deployed, and whether a legislative initiative will be proposed to streamline licensing and guarantee access to financing. A response from the Commission is pending.
Middle East Crisis & Energy Prices
❗ AccelerateEU and protection from price shocks
In E-001698/2026, submitted prior to 26 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the core question addressed measures to shield households and sectors from Middle East-triggered energy price shocks. In a response on 26 June 2026, Commissioner Jørgensen highlighted the AccelerateEU initiative, detailing the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework (METSAF) and the establishment of a Fuel Observatory. He added that the Commission is advancing structural measures, including legislative proposals on network charges, to lower fossil fuel dependence.
❗ Emergency interventions and the AccelerateEU framework
In E-001022/2026, submitted prior to 26 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the inquiry asked about the reactivation of emergency energy interventions. In a response on 26 June 2026, Commissioner Jørgensen clarified that while Europe’s energy supply remains stable, the April 2026 AccelerateEU Communication focuses on short- and long-term measures rather than reactivating the 2022 emergency intervention (Council Regulation (EU) 2022/1854). However, the Commission stands ready to propose such a reactivation if required.
❗ Support for SMEs amid rising energy costs
In E-001309/2026, submitted prior to 29 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the core question focused on protecting SMEs from rising energy costs. In a response on 29 June 2026, Commissioner Jørgensen noted that AccelerateEU provides targeted, temporary measures for Member States to implement, including via the METSAF state aid framework. He also confirmed that legislative proposals on network charges and electricity taxes are being prepared for July 2026.
❗ Electricity market dynamics and price regulation
In E-001360/2026, submitted prior to 26 June 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the inquiry concerned the functioning of internal electricity markets. In a response on 26 June 2026, Commissioner Jørgensen reiterated that the internal market is based on free price formation, but noted that under the latest reform, Member States can implement below-cost regulated prices during an electricity price crisis. The Commission will report on these measures but does not foresee modifying the framework.
❓ Impact of the Middle East conflict on Slovak industry
In E-002294/2026, submitted on 4 June 2026, Erik Kaliňák (NI) highlighted the pressure placed on European, specifically Slovak, industry by energy price hikes linked to the conflict between Iran and its adversaries. The MEP asked how the Commission assesses this impact on energy-intensive sectors and whether it is preparing emergency protective measures. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Energy prices, geopolitical conflict, and EU market frameworks
In E-002546/2026, submitted on 19 June 2026, Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI) criticised the EU’s energy strategy amid the escalating Middle East war. The MEP asked for the Commission’s stance on structural market reforms—such as abolishing the energy exchange and removing VAT and excise duties—rather than relying on token subsidies like ‘fuel passes,’ which he claims only boost corporate profitability. A response from the Commission is pending.
Strategic Autonomy & Geopolitics
❗ Spain’s economic alignment with China and systemic risks
In E-001739/2026, submitted on 28 April 2026, Hermann Tertsch and several other MEPs (PfE) questioned whether the Spanish Government’s recent economic agreements with China contradict the EU’s de-risking strategy, citing Chinese stakes in Spanish ports and solar projects. In a response on 1 July 2026, Commissioner Šefčovič affirmed that Member States remain competent to pursue bilateral cooperation if it respects EU law and the Economic Security Strategy. He reiterated the EU’s commitment to de-risking, noting enhanced trade defence tools and diversification efforts.
❗ Nuclear energy in the EU taxonomy and REPowerEU
In P-001978/2026, submitted prior to 2 July 2026 by an MEP (name and group unlisted in the source document), the question concerned the role of nuclear power in EU energy strategy. In a response on 2 July 2026, Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed that investments in nuclear power plants are covered by the EU taxonomy. He emphasised the Commission’s commitment to ending dependence on Russian nuclear imports, noting that all EU operators of Soviet-design reactors have now contracted with alternative suppliers.
