Overview
This report covers parliamentary questions and answers from Monday 8 to Sunday 14 December 2025, focusing on key energy and industrial policy files. Major themes include the implementation of the Critical Raw Materials Act, concerns over single market distortions from national energy subsidies, the rollout of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and the EU’s strategy to counter foreign competition and secure supply chains for its green transition. Other significant topics include the governance of energy infrastructure, the future of EU climate funding, and managing the geopolitical dimensions of energy security, particularly in relation to China. Of the 32 parliamentary questions covered, 17 have received a response from the European Commission, while 15 are still pending.
❗ Commission Outlines Support for Rural Energy Communities
In a response on 8 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen highlighted the EU’s support for the development of energy communities in rural areas, which are seen as a way to ensure benefits from the energy transition remain local. The question (E-003510/2025) received a reply detailing several EU initiatives, including the Rural Energy Communities Advisory Hub, the new Citizen Energy Advisory Hub, and the Energy Communities Facility, which provides grants for developing business plans. The Commission also noted that the upcoming Citizens Energy Package, part of the Affordable Energy Action Plan, will aim to further enhance citizen participation.
❗ No Plans to Revise Fuel Quality Directive to Allow E20 Petrol
The Commission has no current plans to revise the Fuel Quality Directive to permit the sale of E20 petrol, which has a 20% ethanol content. Responding to question E-003726/2025 on 8 December 2025, Commissioner Hoekstra confirmed that current legislation sets a maximum ethanol content of 10% (E10) and that an assessment of introducing E20 is not part of the current work programme. The response also noted that the EU-Mercosur trade agreement facilitates the import of lower-carbon biofuels like ethanol, which can help decarbonise the transport sector.
❓ Viability of European Wind Industry Amid Chinese Competition
MEP Mathilde Androuët (PfE) submitted a question (E-004196/2025) on 24 October 2025 regarding the viability of the European wind industry. The query cites reports on the slow growth of renewables globally and the stiff competition European wind turbine manufacturers face from lower-cost Chinese companies. The MEP asks how the Commission intends to protect the European wind industry from Chinese competition and ensure the EU does not become more dependent on imports for this technology. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Affirms Support for Energy Infrastructure in Southeastern Europe
In a reply to question E-003639/2025 on 8 December 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen outlined the various tools available to Member States in Southeastern Europe to respond to energy price spikes and support infrastructure investment. The Commission highlighted the Affordable Energy Action Plan, the appointment of a European Coordinator for Central and South-East European interconnectivity, and the Energy Highways Initiative. Financial support mechanisms such as the Connecting Europe Facility for Energy (CEF-E), which funds Projects of Common Interest (PCIs), and cohesion policy funds were also mentioned, with specific reference to past and future eligibility for Greek interconnection projects.
❗ National Authorities Responsible for Environmental Compliance of Energy Projects
Responding to a question (E-004066/2025) about an electrical substation project planned in a Natura 2000 site in Italy, the Commission clarified the applicable environmental rules. In her answer on 9 December 2025, Commissioner Roswall stated that any project likely to have a significant effect on a Natura 2000 site must undergo an appropriate assessment. While energy installations are covered by the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive, it is up to national authorities to determine if a specific project requires a full EIA. The Commission stressed that compliance with EU law, including the ‘Do No Significant Harm’ principle for projects funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility, is primarily the responsibility of national and judicial authorities.
❓ Concerns Raised Over Misuse of Electricity Capacity Mechanisms
MEPs Bruno Tobback (S&D) and Thomas Pellerin-Carlin (S&D) have questioned the Commission on the potential misuse of electricity capacity mechanisms in several Member States. In their question (E-004811/2025) submitted on 4 December 2025, they cite examples from Poland, Greece, and Germany where capacity markets allegedly favour fossil gas plants, contradicting the technology neutrality criteria set out in the Electricity Regulation. The MEPs ask if the Commission is aware of this systemic issue and whether it plans to issue clearer legal guidance to prevent abuses that could raise consumer energy bills. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Sweden’s Lack of Winter Electricity Reserve Blamed on EU State Aid Rules
MEP Hanna Gedin (The Left) has raised concerns about Sweden’s electricity preparedness for the winter, noting the failure of the national grid operator to procure a strategic power reserve. In a question (E-004809/2025) submitted on 4 December 2025, she states the procurement was halted because tender costs exceeded the price ceiling allowed under EU State aid rules. The MEP asks the Commission about the EU’s responsibility in this situation and for guidance on how Sweden can establish a power reserve without breaching these rules. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Details Foreign Subsidies Regulation Investigations
In response to a question (E-003775/2025) from MEP Andreas Schwab (PPE), the Commission has provided an update on its ex-officio investigations under the Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR). In her reply on 9 December 2025, Executive Vice-President Ribera confirmed three ongoing preliminary investigations. These concern alleged foreign subsidies in the wind sector involving Chinese turbine manufacturers, the security equipment sector with unannounced inspections at Nuctech, and the nuclear sector related to the construction of new reactors in the Czech Republic. The Commission stated it is assessing the information collected and stands ready to initiate further investigations where there are indications of distortive foreign subsidies.
❗ Tripartite Agreements to Support Affordable Energy for Industry
The Commission is working on tripartite agreements to secure affordable energy for European industry, bringing together energy developers, industrial consumers, and the public sector. In an answer on 9 December 2025 to question E-003483/2025, Commissioner Jørgensen explained that these agreements aim to create a favourable investment climate. Work has already been launched for offshore wind, grids, and energy storage, with a separate agreement on biomethane also announced. The Commission is currently assessing the potential for similar agreements in other sectors, such as energy efficiency and small modular reactors.
❗ Commission Clarifies Future of LIFE Programme Under Next EU Budget
The Commission has addressed concerns about the future of the LIFE programme for environment and climate action under the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034. In a response on 9 December 2025 to question E-003508/2025, Commissioner Roswall confirmed a proposal to establish a new European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) and repeal several current programmes, including LIFE. However, she clarified that activities currently funded by LIFE would be firmly anchored within the new ECF. The Commission has also proposed a dedicated 35% spending target for climate and environment objectives across the next MFF, with all supported activities required to comply with the ‘do no significant harm’ principle.
❓ Compatibility of German Industrial Energy Tariff with Single Market Questioned
MEP Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE) has questioned the Commission about Germany’s plan to introduce an industrial energy tariff from January 2026, which would provide significant relief to energy-intensive industries. In his question (E-004797/2025) of 3 December 2025, he raises concerns from businesses in other Member States, like the Czech Republic, that this measure will distort fair competition. The MEP asks if the Commission considers the plan compatible with single market principles and what steps it will take to prevent market distortions. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Probed on German Electricity Price Subsidies and State Aid
In a similar vein, MEP Jan Farský (PPE) submitted a question (E-0047892025) on 3 December 2025 asking for the Commission’s assessment of German electricity price subsidy schemes for energy-intensive industries. The query focuses on compatibility with EU State aid rules, particularly the principles of necessity and proportionality. The MEP also asks how the Commission will react if the measures are found to distort competition and whether it intends to propose EU-level instruments to avoid a subsidy race between Member States. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Investigation Sought into Possible Misuse of EU Mobility Funds in Spain
MEP César Luena (S&D) has asked the Commission about the potential misuse of Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) funds in Logroño, Spain, following local decisions to reverse sustainable mobility projects like cycle lanes. In his question (E-0047992025) of 3 December 2025, he asks if the Commission is examining whether these actions are compatible with the milestones of the Spanish recovery plan. He also queries what corrective measures could be applied if a deviation from the approved objectives is detected. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Provides Update on CBAM Implementation Timeline
The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will fully apply from 1 January 2026, and the Commission is preparing the necessary implementing acts. In a response on 8 December 2025 to question E-003841/2025, Commissioner Hoekstra stated that the CBAM benchmarks will be based on the updated EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) benchmarks for 2026-2030, which are expected to be adopted in early 2026. The CBAM benchmarks will follow shortly after. To provide clarity for stakeholders, the Commission will publish provisional CBAM benchmarks before the end of 2025.
❗ EU on Track for 2030 Climate Goals, but 2050 Neutrality Requires More Effort
An assessment of Member States’ National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) and Long-Term Strategies (LTS) shows mixed progress towards the EU’s climate targets. In a reply on 11 December 2025 to question E-004161/2025, Commissioner Hoekstra noted that the latest assessment of updated NECPs indicates the EU is on track to meet its 2030 goal, with greenhouse gas emissions expected to decline by 54% compared to 1990. However, based on the LTS submitted by all Member States except Poland, a rough estimate points to only an 86% reduction by 2050, falling short of the climate neutrality target.
❗ Commission Defends Climate Policies as Enhancing Energy Security
The Commission asserts that its climate policies are well-suited to the current geopolitical context and enhance the EU’s energy security and independence. In an answer on 12 December 2025 to question E-003943/2025, Commissioner Hoekstra cited the REPowerEU Plan as a key example of how accelerating the clean energy transition supports security and competitiveness. The response also referenced the Draghi report, which highlights decarbonisation as a driver of growth, and described the proposed 2040 climate target as a pragmatic and flexible step towards climate neutrality.
❗ Details of EU Delegation to COP30 Revealed
In a response on 12 December 2025 to question E-003971/2025, Commissioner Hoekstra provided details on the EU’s delegation to the COP30 climate conference in Belém. The delegation comprises 125 representatives from EU institutions, including 53 from the Commission and 39 from the European Parliament, in addition to technical support staff. The Commission noted that the UNFCCC Secretariat does not allocate a fixed quota of accreditations to any party, and the list of participants was published on 10 November 2025.
❓ Call for Stronger Transnational Coordination on Arda River Management
A group of MEPs led by Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left) has raised concerns about the lack of a binding cooperation mechanism for the management of the Arda River, which flows from Bulgaria to Greece. Their question (E-004812/2025) of 4 December 2025 highlights conflicts between hydroelectric use in Bulgaria and irrigation needs in Greece, creating risks for the Evros Delta ecosystem. The MEPs ask for the Commission’s assessment of the current non-binding framework and whether it intends to encourage the establishment of a Permanent Joint Committee. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Unequal Competition Feared from CBAM Application
MEP Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis (S&D) has questioned the Commission about a potential loophole in the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) framework set to begin in 2026. In his question (P-004806/2025) of 4 December 2025, he points out that while the carbon tax will apply to steel raw materials used by EU nail producers, it will not apply to finished nails imported from non-EU countries. This, he argues, will create unequal competitive conditions and asks if the Commission is considering amendments to apply the CBAM charge to finished products as well. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Highlights Fire Safety and Circularity in Batteries Regulation
The Batteries Regulation addresses the entire life cycle of batteries to improve safety and circularity. In a response on 9 December 2025 to question E-003859/2025, Commissioner Roswall explained that the regulation mandates high collection rates for batteries and will require them to be more easily removable from appliances by 2027, which will help reduce fire risks. The Commission is also assessing the feasibility of deposit return systems and is developing methodologies to verify the recycled content in new batteries. Support for fire prevention measures in waste facilities is considered a matter for national or operator-level initiatives.
❗ Commission Outlines Measures to Support EU Steel Sector
The Commission is taking steps to support the decarbonisation and competitiveness of the EU steel sector. In an answer on 10 December 2025 to question E-003870/2025, Commissioner Šefčovič detailed a recent proposal to address global overcapacity by limiting duty-free import quotas and increasing the out-of-quota duty to 50%. The Commission is also monitoring exports of steel scrap and plans to propose an Industrial Accelerator Act by the end of 2025. Furthermore, a possible extension of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to cover certain downstream steel products is under consideration.
❗ EIT and its Innovation Communities Deemed Aligned with EU Priorities
The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) and its Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) are operating in full alignment with EU policy priorities. In a reply on 8 December 2025 to question P-003992/2025, Commissioner Zaharieva stated that the KICs, which connect education, research, and business, contribute to key EU policies in areas like energy, climate, digital, and raw materials. The Commission ensures this alignment through mechanisms like Policy Advisory Boards. A review of the EIT’s legal framework, which will reassess provisions concerning the KICs, is due by the end of 2026.
❓ Call to Boost EU Research in AI and Cleantech
MEP Bruno Gonçalves (S&D) has urged the Commission to boost research and retain talent in sectors critical for the digital and green transitions. In a priority question (P-004746/2025) submitted on 1 December 2025, he asks if the Commission is considering setting up a specific fellowship for artificial intelligence and cleantech. He also suggests amending the EU Blue Card Directive to create a green pathway that makes it easier for highly qualified researchers in these strategic sectors to move into the private sector. A response from the Commission is pending.
Critical Raw Materials
❗ Commission Details Critical Raw Materials Act Implementation
The European Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) includes several provisions to increase the exploitation of critical raw materials (CRMs) within the EU. In a response on 9 December 2025 to question E-003577/2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné highlighted that selected strategic projects across the EU will benefit from streamlined permitting and support in accessing finance. The Commission is also working with Member States on coordinating strategic stockpiles. These efforts will be stepped up under the recently announced RESourceEU plan, which will focus on diversification, joint purchasing, and boosting investment in strategic projects and recycling.
❗ Commission Monitoring Strategic Raw Materials Projects
The Commission is closely monitoring all 60 designated strategic projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act to ensure they contribute to the Act’s objectives. This was confirmed by Executive Vice-President Séjourné in a response on 9 December 2025 to question P-004305/2025, which concerned a non-legally binding offer from a US bank to Tungsten West PLC. The Commission stated that it can withdraw the status of a strategic project if it no longer meets the required criteria. This monitoring is part of the broader ResourceEU Action Plan to secure diversified access to CRMs.
❓ MEPs Question Regulatory Barriers to Raw Material Extraction in EU
A group of MEPs led by Anne-Sophie Frigout (PfE) has raised concerns that the EU’s current regulatory framework, particularly environmental rules, is a major obstacle to developing new mining projects. In their question (E-004738/2025) of 1 December 2025, they argue that administrative complexity and long permit deadlines hinder the EU’s ability to bolster its internal extraction capacity for critical raw materials. They ask if the Commission intends to revise environmental rules to reconcile them with the need for industrial sovereignty and if it will encourage the EIB to support European extraction projects. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Outlines Global Gateway Strategy Principles
The Global Gateway (GG) programme aims to boost smart, clean, and secure links in digital, energy, and transport sectors worldwide, diversifying the EU’s international partnerships. In a response on 11 December 2025 to question E-004113/2025, Commissioner Síkela explained that the strategy is guided by principles including democratic values, good governance, and catalysing private sector investment. All GG projects are subject to the strict rules that apply to EU-financed initiatives, with transparency provided through annual reports and the Commission’s website. Member States have full ownership in proposing flagship projects that align with the EU’s strategic interests.
❓ Suspension of EU-Rwanda Critical Raw Materials MoU Demanded
MEPs from the Verts/ALE group, including Majdouline Sbai, are pressing the Commission on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Critical Raw Materials with Rwanda. In a priority question (P-004850/2025) submitted on 8 December 2025, they reference Parliament’s request to suspend the MoU amid risks of importing conflict minerals. They ask the Commission to explain what actions it has taken to review the deal, how the MoU is compatible with the Conflict Minerals Regulation, and what other avenues for dialogue exist if the MoU is suspended. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Questioned on Response to Chinese Raw Material Export Curbs
MEP Jan Farský (PPE) has asked the Commission how it is responding to recent Chinese export restrictions on critical raw materials essential for semiconductors, batteries, and renewable energy technologies. The question (E-004787/2025) of 3 December 2025 queries the compatibility of these restrictions with WTO rules and asks what immediate steps the Commission is taking to secure alternative supplies through the Critical Raw Materials Act and strategic partnerships. The MEP also asks if additional trade defence or industrial policy measures are being planned. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Concerns Raised Over Sanction Evasion via Georgian Oil Refineries
A cross-party group of MEPs led by Malik Azmani (Renew) has raised alarms about the potential use of Georgian refineries to circumvent EU sanctions on Russian oil. Their question (E-004675/2025) of 24 November 2025 cites reports of Russian crude being delivered to a new refinery in Georgia. The MEPs ask what measures the Commission is taking to verify the origin of oil imported from Georgia, prevent the misuse of EU transport routes, and whether it is considering sanctioning Georgian entities that facilitate sanction evasion. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Seek Restrictions on Chinese Investment in EU Critical Infrastructure
MEP Piotr Müller (ECR) has questioned the Commission about the growing presence of Chinese companies in European strategic infrastructure, including ports, railways, and energy systems. In his question (E-004810/2025) of 4 December 2025, he argues this poses a challenge to EU security. He asks if the Commission intends to propose specific restrictions on Chinese investment in critical infrastructure and what instruments it envisages to reduce China’s influence in these strategic sectors. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Governance and Transparency of Chinese Companies in EU Questioned
A group of ECR MEPs led by Paolo Inselvini has raised concerns that Chinese-controlled companies operating in the EU benefit from the single market without upholding European standards on transparency, governance, and supply chain traceability. Their question (E-004818/2025) of 4 December 2025 asks if the Commission will introduce binding governance requirements for non-EU companies, mandate full supply chain traceability, and step up supervision of foreign direct investment. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Probed on Dutch Decision Regarding Chip Company Nexperia
MEP Dirk Gotink (PPE) has submitted a priority question (P-004696/2025) on 26 November 2025 concerning the Dutch government’s decision to freeze the activities of chip company Nexperia, which prompted an export ban from China. The MEP asks when the Commission was first made aware of the Dutch decision and requests access to all related documents and correspondence it has received or produced on the matter since 1 August 2025. A response from the Commission is pending.
