Overview
This report covers recent parliamentary questions submitted by Members of the European Parliament, providing a snapshot of legislative and policy concerns related to the European energy transition and industrial strategy and published between Monday 1 December and Sunday 7 December 2025. The inquiries span a wide range of topics, including the security of energy supply in the context of Russia’s war in Ukraine, the development of renewable energy sources like hydrogen and solar, the resilience and integration of European energy grids, and the regulatory frameworks governing markets and industries. Other key themes include international energy partnerships, the financing of the green transition, and the impact of EU policies on industrial competitiveness. In total, this report analyses 38 parliamentary questions, of which 31 have received a response from the European Commission or Council, while 7 are still awaiting a reply.
❓ Concerns over Portuguese Solar Farm’s Environmental Impact
In a question (E-004618/2025) submitted on 19 November 2025, MEP Catarina Martins (The Left) raised concerns about the planned Sophia solar farm in Castelo Branco, Portugal. The question highlights the project’s location within protected areas, including the Tejo International Natural Park, and its potential impact on sensitive ecosystems and endangered species. Martins asks the Commission whether the project complies with the Habitats and Birds Directives, the European Green Deal, and broader principles of sustainability and environmental non-regression. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Bolstering Biofuel Traceability to Combat Fraud
In response to concerns about potential fraud in biofuel feedstock supply chains, the Commission outlined its efforts to enhance traceability. In a reply on 28 November 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen stated that the Union database (UDB), a global traceability tool, is key to mitigating risks (E-002771/25). The UDB is already operational with approximately 31,000 registered users, and the Commission is working with Member States to ensure its mandatory systemic use. To further strengthen the framework, a delegated regulation extending traceability to cover raw materials is being finalised for adoption in the first quarter of 2026, alongside a revision of Regulation (EU) 2022/996 to improve the governance of certification schemes.
❗ Rules for Certifying Bio-LNG via Mass-Balancing Confirmed
The Commission has clarified the rules for certifying bio-LNG produced from biomethane using interconnected gas infrastructure. In a response on 4 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed that under Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/996, biomethane and LNG are considered part of the same product group, allowing them to be part of the same mass-balancing system (E-004017/25). The transfer of sustainability attributes between the two is possible provided that industry conversion factors are applied and all life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions from the liquefaction process are correctly allocated. The Commission is currently reviewing the implementation of these rules across Member States to ensure harmonious application.
Hydrogen & Power-to-X
❓ MEP Seeks Clarity on Low-Carbon Hydrogen Rules
MEP Eero Heinäluoma (S&D) has requested further clarification on the Delegated Act on low-carbon hydrogen. In a question (E-004601/2025) submitted on 19 November 2025, he points out that the current methodology for calculating emissions does not support innovative applications for solid carbon, such as battery-grade graphite produced during methane pyrolysis. The question asks if the Commission will expand the list of approved applications for solid carbon, when an updated list will be presented, and how the act can better support the production of critical raw materials in Europe. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Discrepancies Between EU and UK Rules on CO₂ Sources for E-fuels Questioned
The competitive landscape for e-fuel production is under scrutiny, as highlighted in a question (E-004371/2025) from MEP Georgiana Teodorescu (ECR) on 5 November 2025. The inquiry notes that EU delegated acts on renewable fuels exclude many industrial CO₂ sources, whereas the UK’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Mandate is more flexible, potentially creating a competitive disadvantage for EU producers. The MEP asks if the Commission is aware of this difference, recognizes the risk of investment shifting to the UK, and whether the EU’s criteria on effective carbon pricing acts as a de facto ban on e-fuels. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Delays and Geopolitical Tensions Stall Greece-Cyprus Interconnector
MEP Yannis Maniatis (S&D) has raised serious concerns about the future of the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection, a Project of Common Interest (PCI). In a question (E-004589/2025) submitted on 18 November 2025, he points to significant delays caused by Türkiye’s reactions and a lack of a clear roadmap from the Greek and Cypriot governments. He asks the Commission for a new implementation timetable that secures approved EU funding, the justification for new economic and technical studies for a long-standing PCI, and how the Commission will help defend EU interests against Turkish challenges. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Great Sea Interconnector Despite Cost Hikes
Addressing concerns over the viability of major energy infrastructure projects, the Commission confirmed its continued support for the Great Sea Interconnector linking Greece and Cyprus. In a reply on 4 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen explained that all Projects of Common Interest (PCIs) undergo a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) to ensure their overall benefits outweigh costs before being listed (E-003673/25). While acknowledging that it is not uncommon for PCIs to face higher costs than anticipated due to supply chain and geopolitical challenges, the Commission stressed that their benefits, particularly for security of supply, have also increased. The Commission is actively engaged with Cypriot and Greek authorities to ensure the project’s completion.
❓ MEPs Demand Action on Delayed Spain-France Electricity Interconnections
The low electricity interconnection capacity of the Iberian Peninsula was the focus of a question (E-004586/2025) submitted on 18 November 2025 by MEPs Borja Giménez Larraz (PPE) and Pilar del Castillo Vera (PPE). They highlighted that two key cross-Pyrenean projects have been pushed back by over a decade, despite their PCI status. The MEPs asked if the Commission is considering new legal instruments to strengthen European governance of such projects, if it will enhance its ability to intervene when Member States cause delays, and what measures are planned to better integrate renewable-rich regions like Aragón into the EU grid. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Investigation into Iberian Blackout Progressing
Following a major blackout in the Iberian Peninsula, the Commission is closely monitoring the investigation into its causes. In a response on 28 November 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed that an expert panel adopted a factual report in October 2025, with a final report containing recommendations expected in the coming months (E-002275/25). In a related answer on the same day (E-002456/25), he noted that Spain and Portugal have submitted their own ex-post evaluation reports under the Electricity Risk-Preparedness Regulation, which have been discussed with all Member States. The Commission will draw lessons from the incident, including potentially strengthening the protection of vulnerable customers in a future revision of the energy security framework.
❗ Commission Backs Bidding Zone Reform for Market Integration
The Commission has reiterated its support for reviewing electricity bidding zones as a tool to enhance market integration and manage system costs. In a reply on 3 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen noted that locational signals through bidding zones can support security of supply and the integration of renewables (E-003530/25). He cited a recent ACER opinion estimating that the benefits of a reconfiguration could be significantly higher than previously assessed. While deeper market integration could yield annual savings of EUR 40 billion by 2030 according to the IMF, the Commission remains focused on protecting consumers from price spikes and has launched the Energy Union Task Force to improve coordination.
❗ Commission Outlines Actions to Tackle High Energy Prices
While acknowledging that European energy prices are significantly lower than during the 2022-2023 crisis, the Commission recognizes they remain high compared to other major economies. In a response on 3 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen highlighted several ongoing efforts to provide relief, including the Clean Industrial Deal and the Affordable Energy Action Plan (E-003512/25). He also emphasized the role of the Energy Union Task Force, launched in June 2025, in fostering cooperation among Member States to collectively tackle high prices and monitor the implementation of a seven-point action plan to support industries and consumers.
❗ ETS2 Seen as Key to Competitiveness and Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependency
The Commission defended the new Emissions Trading System for buildings and road transport (ETS2) as a crucial tool for EU competitiveness. In a reply on 4 December 2025, Commissioner Hoekstra stated that ETS2 complements other policies to help Member States meet their 2030 climate targets (E-004201/25). He argued that the system supports competitiveness by reducing dependence on volatile fossil fuel imports, which cost the EU nearly EUR 400 billion in 2024, and by creating opportunities for European cleantech companies in sectors like heat pumps and batteries. The response also noted the proposed one-year delay in the start of ETS2 to 2028.
❓ Malta’s New Incinerators and EU ETS Obligations Under Scrutiny
MEP Peter Agius (PPE) has questioned the climate impact of two new incinerators planned in Malta, particularly in light of a report showing Malta is the only EU Member State projected to increase its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2005. In a question (E-004623/2025) submitted on 19 November 2025, he asks if the emissions from these facilities will be included in the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), whether they will require the purchase of allowances under the polluter pays principle, and if the Commission is concerned they will hinder Malta’s ability to meet its climate goals. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Rules on Maritime Sector’s Climate Penalty Revenues Clarified
The Commission has detailed how revenues from climate-related penalties in the maritime sector are to be used. In a response on 5 December 2025, Commissioner Tzitzikostas explained that under the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, Member States should use revenues from penalties to support the deployment of renewable and low-carbon fuels, with the first reports on their use due by 2030 (E-003890/25). Separately, the ETS Directive obliges Member States to use ETS revenues for climate action. While most are not required to earmark funds specifically for the maritime sector, those receiving additional allowances due to a high ratio of shipping companies must do so.
❗ EIB’s External Financing Aligned with EU Policy Objectives
In response to a question about the European Investment Bank (EIB) financing projects outside the EU, the Commission has defended the practice as consistent with the Union’s external policy goals. In a reply on 1 December 2025, Commissioner Dombrovskis clarified that while the EIB’s primary mission is within the EU, its statute allows for external operations under Council directives (E-003875/25). Approximately 90% of EIB financing occurs within the EU, and external operations are financed by the Bank’s own resources, not EU debt. These activities serve to advance objectives such as stability in the neighbourhood and sustainable development, and the EIB’s 2024-2027 Strategic Roadmap is aligned with Commission priorities.
❗ Commission Assessing Options for New Ecodesign Rules for Heaters
The Commission has confirmed it has not yet issued a proposal for new ecodesign requirements for space heaters and boilers, including solid fuel models. In a series of related responses on 3 December 2025 (E-003585/25, E-003583/25, and E-003584/25), Commissioner Jørgensen stated that an impact assessment is currently underway. This assessment is gathering data from industry, experts, and scientific studies to evaluate the environmental, economic, and societal impacts of various policy options. Key considerations include potential effects on different EU regions, security of energy access, and affordability for low-income families, as legally required by the Ecodesign Framework Directive.
❗ EU Bolstering Climate Emergency Response and Prevention
Following a record year for wildfires, the Commission outlined its strategy for adapting Europe’s emergency systems to the climate crisis. In a response on 1 December 2025 from Commissioner Lahbib, it was noted that the EU has invested EUR 600 million in a permanent rescEU fleet of 12 firefighting planes, with EUR 10.7 billion proposed for civil protection in the next MFF (E-003441/25). Cohesion policy and the Common Agricultural Policy are the main funding sources for prevention, with EUR 14.5 billion from cohesion funds allocated for 2021-2027. The Commission is also developing a European Climate Resilience and Risk Management Integrated Framework, planned for the end of 2026, to better link emergency response with prevention policies.
❗ Commission Developing Framework for Climate-Resilient Supply Chains
The Commission has acknowledged that climate change poses a direct threat to the resilience of European and global supply chains. In a reply on 2 December 2025, Commissioner Hoekstra stated that the Commission is committed to improving the systemic resilience of EU supply chains, as detailed in the European Climate Risk Assessment (E-003863/25). Key actions include revising the EU energy security framework to address climate impacts and cyber-attacks, and developing a European Climate Resilience Integrated Framework, planned for Q4 2026, to ensure climate resilience becomes a driver of EU competitiveness.
❗ Commission Defends Green Deal and Outlines Simplification Efforts
Addressing concerns about excessive regulation, the Commission has defended its approach to standard-setting and outlined its strategy for enhancing competitiveness. In a response on 2 December 2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné clarified that European harmonised standards are voluntary and simplify market access (E-003877/25). He explained that the new ‘small mid-cap’ company definition is intended to streamline regulatory requirements. The response also pointed to the Competitiveness Compass and the Clean Industrial Deal as the core strategies for decarbonising European industry while strengthening its economy, and noted that a broader simplification effort to reduce reporting requirements was launched in February 2025.
❗ Clean Industrial Deal to Support SMEs and Strategic Sectors
The Commission has outlined its priorities for European industrial policy under the Clean Industrial Deal, focusing on decarbonisation and competitiveness. In a response on 5 December 2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné stated that the upcoming Industrial Accelerator Act will be a key legislative measure for strategic sectors and technologies (E-003869/25). The strategy aims to create lead markets for low-carbon, made-in-Europe products by establishing resilience and sustainability requirements. Additionally, the proposed European Competitiveness Fund will include measures to increase access to finance for SMEs and small mid-cap companies, facilitating their integration into EU value chains.
❗ Commission Sees Strategic Role for Nuclear in Powering AI
Nuclear energy, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), is set to play a strategic role in supporting Europe’s competitiveness in artificial intelligence (AI) by meeting the growing energy demand of data centres. In a reply on 3 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen announced that the Commission plans to adopt a strategy for the development and deployment of SMRs in Europe, aiming for acceleration in the early 2030s (E-003455/25). Furthermore, a Strategic Roadmap for digitalisation and AI in the energy sector is being prepared for publication in early 2026, which will examine how data centres can be more sustainably integrated into the energy system.
❗ EU Cohesion Policy Available to Support Kiruna’s Strategic Relocation
The Commission has acknowledged the strategic importance of the mining expansion in Kiruna, Sweden, for securing Europe’s supply of rare earth elements. Responding to a question on 15 September 2025 about the social consequences of the town’s relocation, Executive Vice-President Séjourné replied on 2 December 2025 that while the Commission does not have a direct role in project operations, it recognizes the project’s value for EU strategic autonomy (E-003546/25). The Commission is in contact with the project promoters and will continue to work with Swedish authorities to ensure that EU cohesion policy instruments can be used to support a just and balanced transition for the affected community.
❗ Commission to Uphold EU Maritime Climate Rules Despite IMO Delay
Following the one-year postponement of a decision on the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) Net-Zero Framework, the Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to its own maritime decarbonisation policies. In a response on 5 December 2025, Commissioner Tzitzikostas called the delay regrettable but stated the Commission will continue to engage constructively with international partners (E-003888/25). He highlighted that the EU Emissions Trading System and the FuelEU Maritime Regulation include specific review clauses to account for future IMO developments. In the meantime, the Commission will continue to support the sector’s competitiveness through instruments like the Innovation Fund and the upcoming EU Maritime and Ports Strategies.
❗ EU Guarantees Ensure Non-Russian Gas for Ukraine
The Commission has confirmed that its support for Ukraine’s energy sector includes strict conditions to ensure diversification away from Russian gas. In two similar responses on 3 and 4 December 2025 (E-003468/25 and E-003518/25), Commissioner Jørgensen detailed Russia’s deliberate attacks on Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure, which have destroyed two-thirds of its power generation capacity since the start of the war. He stated that EU guarantees supporting Ukraine’s gas purchases have explicit stipulations for non-Russian supply. The Commission is also actively helping Ukraine diversify through initiatives like opening participation in the AggregateEU platform.
❗ Commission Supports Diversification Amid Druzhba Pipeline Disruptions
Following oil supply disruptions on the Druzhba pipeline during the summer of 2025, the Commission has emphasized the strategic importance of diversifying energy supplies for affected Member States. In two related answers on 3 and 4 December 2025 (E-003418/25 and E-003703/25), Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed that the Commission closely monitored the situation with Hungarian and Slovak authorities and that the disruptions did not impact their security of supply. He highlighted that both countries can reduce their reliance on Russian oil by increasing their use of the Adria pipeline through Croatia, and the Commission stands ready to facilitate the necessary arrangements.
❓ MEPs Question Commission’s Stance on Nord Stream Sabotage Investigation
A group of MEPs led by Arkadiusz Mularczyk (ECR) has questioned the Commission regarding Germany’s European arrest warrant for a suspected Ukrainian combatant in connection with the Nord Stream pipeline sabotage. In a question (E-004492/2025) submitted on 12 November 2025, the MEPs frame the sabotage as a strategic benefit for the EU that weakened Russia’s energy leverage. They ask for the Commission’s opinion on the extradition of Ukrainian combatants and what measures it will take to capitalize on the disruption to Russia’s influence. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ EU-US Energy Deal Aligned with REPowerEU Goals
The Commission has clarified that the recent political agreement with the United States on energy procurement is consistent with the EU’s climate objectives. In responses on 4 and 5 December 2025 (E-003743/25 and E-003370/25), Commissioner Jørgensen explained that the agreement, which involves private sector intentions to procure US LNG, oil, and nuclear products valued at an estimated USD 750 billion through 2028, is designed to help the EU phase out remaining Russian energy imports under the REPowerEU plan. It does not mean an increase in overall fossil fuel imports and will not compromise the EU’s 2050 climate-neutrality objective. The Commission is also engaging with the US on limiting methane emissions from LNG exports.
❗ EU Deepens Energy Cooperation with Canada
The EU is strengthening its energy partnership with Canada to support its clean energy transition and diversification goals. In a reply on 4 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen described Canada as a trusted and like-minded partner (E-003953/25). At the EU-Canada Summit in June 2025, both parties agreed to cooperate more closely on resilient energy supply chains, including clean tech, LNG, renewables, and hydrogen. This cooperation is particularly important in the context of the REPowerEU plan to phase out Russian energy imports. Discussions are ongoing within the EU-Canada High-Level Energy Dialogue to advance these goals.
❗ Commission Supports Nuclear Safety in Ukraine and Sanctions Russia
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to nuclear safety in Ukraine and its stance against Russia’s aggression. In a response on 4 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen stated that the Commission works closely with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and financially supports its missions to all Ukrainian nuclear facilities (E-003880/25). The EU also operates an early-warning system for radiological emergencies (ECURIE) and can coordinate assistance through the Union Civil Protection Mechanism. The response highlighted that the EU has adopted unprecedented sanctions against Russia, including comprehensive export controls limiting its access to nuclear-related goods and technology.
❗ Council Defends Russia Sanctions, Refers Economic Impact Questions to Commission
In response to a question about the overall economic impact of sanctions against Russia, the Council of the EU defended the measures as a key tool of its Common Foreign and Security Policy. In a reply on 1 December 2025, the Council stated that the unprecedented restrictive measures are designed to reduce the Kremlin’s ability to finance its war against Ukraine and diminish its economic base (E-002144/25). The Council noted that all restrictive measures are regularly reviewed and require unanimity to be amended or renewed. For a quantitative assessment of the sanctions’ economic impact, the Council directed the inquiring MEP to contact the European Commission.
❗ Commission Challenges China’s Agri-Food Probes Amid EV Dispute
The Commission is actively challenging China’s investigations into European agri-food products, which it views as retaliatory measures following the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs). In a response on 5 December 2025, Commissioner Šefčovič stated that while the Commission seriously doubts the investigations into brandy, pork, and dairy are well-founded, it is assessing each on its merits and challenging them through appropriate legal avenues, including at the WTO (E-004030/25). The Commission emphasized that any course of action must ensure the continued effectiveness of the EU’s trade defence instruments, which protect over 600,000 jobs.
❗ EU-Indonesia Trade Deal Described as Balanced and Win-Win
The Commission has defended the recently concluded Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Indonesia against claims that it makes unbalanced concessions. In a reply on 5 December 2025, Commissioner Šefčovič described the agreement as a balanced, comprehensive, and win-win outcome (E-004002/25). He noted that Indonesia will eliminate just over 98% of tariffs on EU exports. Furthermore, the agreement includes a 50% reduction in Indonesian export duties on key raw materials like nickel and cobalt, which will give the EU preferential treatment and enhance the integration of supply chains.
