Overview
This report covers Parliamentary Questions (PQs) published in the week of Monday, 02.03.2026, to Sunday, 08.03.2026. The key themes addressed include the regulation of low-carbon fuels and hydrogen, energy market dynamics and consumer pricing, ecodesign standards for heating appliances, and access to EU financing for critical infrastructure. Of the 4 PQs covered in this period, 3 have received a response from the European Commission, while 1 remains pending.
❗ Retail energy costs and consumer protection in Greece
In a response to E-004659/25 concerning energy costs in Greece, Commissioner Jørgensen clarified on 02.03.2026 that retail prices differ across Member States due to a variety of factors including wholesale markets, network costs, and national taxes. Citing Eurostat data, the Commission noted that household electricity and gas prices in Greece were below the EU average in the first half of 2025. The response highlighted ongoing work to accelerate grid investments and deploy flexibility solutions in South-Eastern Europe. For lasting price stabilisation and consumer protection, the Commission points to structural measures within the reformed electricity market design, which strengthens long-term contracts and allows for targeted support for vulnerable groups, complemented by instruments like the Social Climate Fund. A forthcoming ‘Citizens Energy Package’ was also announced to enhance citizen participation in the energy transition.
❓ Spain’s access to EIB funding for water infrastructure
In E-000453/2026, submitted on 04.02.2026, MEP Carmen Crespo Díaz (PPE) asks the Commission about Spain’s access to a new EUR 15 billion European Investment Bank (EIB) funding line for water projects. The question seeks to know if the Spanish Government has applied for this funding, which is aimed at reducing pollution and addressing water scarcity, and requests details on the status, financial volume, and distribution of any projects submitted. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Ecodesign requirements for solid fuel local space heaters
Responding to E-004432/25, Commissioner Jørgensen stated on 02.03.2026 that the Commission has not yet issued a proposal for new ecodesign requirements for solid fuel local space heaters. An impact assessment is currently being prepared to evaluate possible changes to the existing regulation, which will analyse affordability, social, economic, and environmental impacts, while considering the renewable nature of biomass. The Commission is in dialogue with industry and stakeholders, and one measure being considered is a quick user guide provided with products to help users optimise fuel combustion and minimise pollutant emissions.
Hydrogen & Power-to-X
❗ Low-carbon hydrogen and carbon storage definitions
In the answer to E-004601/25, published on 02.03.2026, Commissioner Jørgensen addressed the methodology for assessing greenhouse gas emissions savings from low-carbon fuels, particularly hydrogen. The Commission clarified that there is no set timeline for updating the list of products considered to permanently chemically bind carbon. Any review of this list is subject to new technological developments and evidence presented by stakeholders. Furthermore, the response specified that the legal basis in the ETS Directive does not establish any link between products that permanently bind emissions and the classification of critical raw materials.
