This report covers parliamentary questions submitted to and answered by the European Commission in early September 2025. The inquiries span a wide range of energy and climate policy areas, reflecting ongoing legislative implementation and emerging challenges. Key themes include the build-out of renewable energy and its interaction with other sectors; the development of critical energy infrastructure, grids, and storage solutions; the economic impact of carbon pricing and the allocation of EU financing; and the implementation of overarching governance frameworks like the Green Deal and the Critical Raw Materials Act. MEPs also focused on industrial competitiveness, supply chain resilience, and the EU’s energy security in a complex geopolitical landscape. In total, this report summarises 43 parliamentary questions, of which 28 have received a response from the Commission and 15 are pending.
Offshore Renewables and Fisheries Co-existence
In PQ E-002240/25 (link), MEPs questioned the Commission on managing the interplay between offshore renewable energy (ORE) development and the fisheries sector. Responding on 2 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen emphasised that the EU’s maritime spatial planning (MSP) framework is the key tool for managing marine space and mitigating conflicts. He confirmed the Commission is working with Member States to ensure dialogue with the fisheries sector, supporting studies on co-existence, and conducting a study on the employment and social implications of ORE, with a report due by the end of 2026.
Delays in Greek Solar Water Heater Programme
Yannis Maniatis (S&D) submitted PQ E-003432/2025 (link) on 4 September 2025, highlighting significant delays in Greece’s ‘Changing My Heating System and Water Heater’ programme, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Fund. Maniatis claims the delays are causing a 50% reduction in production for the Greek solar industry and asks what measures the Commission will take to address the situation, protect vulnerable households, and investigate if the delays are linked to an intention to assign such programmes to energy providers. A response from the Commission is pending.
Competition Concerns over ‘Virtual Liquefaction’ of Biomethane
In PQ E-003417/2025 (link), submitted on 4 September 2025, MEPs Engin Eroglu and Christine Singer (Renew) raised concerns about the practice of ‘virtual liquefaction,’ where fossil LNG is relabelled as bio-LNG using certificates. They argue this purely accounting-based model, allowed under the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), distorts competition against physically produced bio-LNG and conceals emissions. They ask when the Commission will publish a delegated act to address this loophole and how it will protect low-emission production pathways. A response from the Commission is pending.
Progress on Iberian Peninsula Interconnections
Regarding the energy connection of the Iberian Peninsula, the Commission was asked about the status of key infrastructure projects. In a 2 September 2025 response to PQ E-002389/25 (link), Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed that the interconnection project between Spain and Portugal is expected to be completed in Autumn 2025, increasing capacity to 3.2 GW. He added that the Biscay Bay interconnection is under construction and should be commissioned by 2028, doubling the capacity between France and Spain to 5,000 MW. The Commission continues to work on Trans-Pyrenean projects through the High-Level Group for South-West Europe.
EU Funding for Energy Transition in Western Macedonia
In response to a query about Just Transition Mechanism (JTM) projects in Greece’s Western Macedonia region, Executive Vice-President Fitto provided an update on 3 September 2025. Answering PQ E-002458/25 (link), he detailed several projects, including a €40 million, 230 MW photovoltaic project and another €195 million investment in solar plants and battery storage. A broader €72 million project (€14m EU grant, €58m EIB loan) is also underway to support socioeconomic transition across areas like energy efficiency and renewables, with a second investment of around €110 million currently in preparation.
Oversight of Greek Carbon Capture and Storage Project
MEPs questioned the Commission’s oversight of a CO2 storage facility project in Prinos, northern Greece, which is a Project of Common Interest (PCI) and part of the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). In her 4 September 2025 reply to PQ E-002898/25 (link), Commissioner Roswall stated that while the Commission may issue a non-binding opinion on storage permits, it is primarily the responsibility of national authorities to ensure compliance with all EU environmental legislation. She confirmed the Greek RRP includes requirements to respect the ‘do no significant harm’ principle, and evidence of this will be assessed with payment requests.
Uncertainty Surrounding Great Sea Interconnector
Nikolas Farantouris (The Left) raised concerns on 4 September 2025 in PQ E-003419/2025 (link) about the future of the Great Sea Interconnector, a strategic project to link Cyprus to the European electricity grid. The MEP points to threats from Türkiye and disputes between Cypriot and Greek authorities over the project’s economic viability as sources of delay and uncertainty. He asks what the Commission will do to ensure the project’s rapid completion and how it will address Türkiye’s military threats. A response from the Commission is pending.
Competition and Unbundling in Cyprus Electricity Market
In PQ E-003354/2025 (link) submitted on 1 September 2025, Michalis Hadjipantela (PPE) questioned recent Cypriot legislation allowing the Transmission System Operator (TSOC) to build and own large battery storage plants without a tender. The MEP raises concerns about fair competition, potential state aid, and conflicts of interest, as the TSOC also operates the market and issues grid permits. He asks how the Commission will ensure the measures are temporary and proportionate and if the arrangement is compatible with EU principles of non-discrimination and unbundling. A response from the Commission is pending.
Commission Clarifies Impact of ETS on Electricity Bills
Jacek Ozdoba (ECR) asked about the percentage of electricity bills accounted for by EU charges, particularly the Emissions Trading System (ETS), in PQ E-002980/25 (link). In his 5 September 2025 reply, Commissioner Hoekstra explained that taxes and charges are a national competence, accounting for 25% of household bills on average in 2024. He stated the ETS is not an EU tax but its costs are passed on by fossil-fuel generators, noting that falling ETS prices in 2024 helped lower electricity prices. For the upcoming ETS2, he highlighted that revenues, especially from the €86.7 billion Social Climate Fund, will be used to support vulnerable households and finance the transition.
EU Electricity Market Design Reform Aims to Stabilise Prices
In response to a question on the internal electricity market, Commissioner Jørgensen on 2 September 2025 highlighted the benefits of the single market, estimated at €34 billion per year. Answering PQ E-002040/25 (link), he stated that the recent reform of the European electricity market design (EMD) aims to stabilise prices and lower the impact of gas prices by strengthening tools like Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Contracts for Difference (CfDs). He noted that significant follow-up work is required to fully decouple retail bills from volatile fossil fuel prices, and the revised REMIT regulation will enhance market transparency.
Germany’s Budget Deficit and Stability Pact Compliance Under Scrutiny
Moritz Körner (Renew) questioned the Commission on Germany’s expected budget deficits from 2025-2029 following reforms to its national debt brake. In a 5 September 2025 response to PQ E-002965/25 (link), Commissioner Dombrovskis stated the Commission’s Spring 2025 forecast projected deficits of 2.7% and 2.9% of GDP for 2025 and 2026, respectively, but noted these figures do not include the new government’s policies. He confirmed the Commission is currently assessing Germany’s medium-term fiscal structural plan to ensure compliance with the Stability and Growth Pact rules.
Cohesion Policy to Remain Core Element of EU Budget
Responding to a question from Mihai Tudose (S&D) about reflecting citizens’ priorities in cohesion policy, Executive Vice-President Fitto affirmed on 5 September 2025 that cohesion remains a core element of the EU budget. In his answer to PQ E-002825/25 (link), he highlighted that the Commission’s proposal for the 2028-2034 budget allocates €783 billion for National and Regional Partnership (NRP) Plans, which will streamline funding and empower regions. He noted that recent amendments will strengthen support for investments in defence, housing, water resilience, and the energy transition, with a binding 14% spending target for social inclusion.
Commission Defends Oversight of Spanish RRF Implementation
Following a query about potential irregularities in a Spanish social housing measure under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the Commission outlined its monitoring procedures. In a 1 September 2025 response to PQ P-002530/25 (link), Commissioner Serafin stated that it is the primary responsibility of Member States to protect the EU’s financial interests and recover misappropriated funds. He confirmed that while Spain has not reported irregularities on this matter via the Irregularity Management System (IMS), national control systems and judicial authorities are the first line of defence, with the Commission, OLAF, and EPPO able to intervene if serious issues are not rectified.
Monitoring of Italian RRF Projects Focuses on CID Annex Requirements
In response to a question about the implementation of rapid mass transport projects under Italy’s national recovery and resilience plan (RRP), Executive Vice-President Fitto clarified the Commission’s monitoring role on 3 September 2025. Answering PQ E-002747/25 (link), he stated that the Commission’s assessment is based on the requirements outlined in the Annex to the Council Implementing Decision (CID). He stressed that Member State authorities are primarily responsible for ensuring specific projects comply with all national and EU laws, including those related to working conditions.
Call for ETS Opt-Out for Strategic Chemical Production
Marta Wcisło (PPE) submitted PQ E-003378/2025 (link) on 3 September 2025, arguing that high ETS costs threaten Poland’s nitrogen-based fertiliser industry and increase EU reliance on imports. She asks if the Commission is considering an opt-out mechanism from the ETS Directive for facilities producing essential chemical precursors like ammonia, nitric acid, and urea to secure the European industry’s production independence. A response from the Commission is pending.
Funding Effectiveness in Greek Islands Questioned
In PQ E-003350/2025 (link), submitted on 1 September 2025, Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE) questions why Greek islands in the Dodecanese and Eastern Aegean still lack basic infrastructure despite receiving significant EU funds through various cohesion and development programmes. The MEP asks for the Commission’s assessment of the efficiency of fund allocation in these geostrategically critical regions and whether it intends to develop targeted financial instruments to support them. A response from the Commission is pending.
2040 Climate Target Sends “Clear Signal” to Global Partners
In response to a question on the EU’s 2040 climate target, Commissioner Hoekstra stated on 3 September 2025 that the proposal is an essential component of the Union’s efforts under the Paris Agreement. Answering PQ P-003042/25 (link), he asserted that the target sends a clear signal to the global community of the EU’s commitment to ambitious climate action and helps build trust for others to engage. He also acknowledged the key role of agriculture in the transition and the importance of food security, referencing the recent Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture.
Commission Plans to Streamline Permitting for Industrial Decarbonisation
Responding to a query on simplifying environmental assessments for strategic projects, Commissioner Roswall confirmed on 3 September 2025 that new legislative proposals are planned for the fourth quarter of 2025. In her answer to PQ P-003051/25 (link), she announced an Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act to streamline permitting for energy-intensive industries and a European Grids Package to accelerate infrastructure projects. She noted that existing EU legislation already allows for exemptions and flexibility in environmental assessment procedures.
Commission Defends Role of Interinstitutional Agreements and National Parliaments
Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE) raised concerns in PQ E-002198/25 (link) that interinstitutional agreements are used to circumvent national parliaments. In a 4 September 2025 reply, Vice-President Šefčovič rejected this, stating that such agreements are tools for efficient cooperation and do not weaken the role of national parliaments. He underscored that national parliaments have the power to scrutinise legislative proposals for subsidiarity and proportionality and that the Commission maintains a robust political dialogue with them, citing 84 meetings between Commissioners and national parliaments since the start of the mandate.
Commission to Update Greenwashing Guidance “At a Later Stage”
A cross-party group of MEPs asked why the Commission was not planning to revise its guidelines on unfair commercial practices to reflect the new anti-greenwashing rules in Directive (EU) 2024/825. In a 4 September 2025 response to PQ E-003053/25 (link), Commissioner McGrath stated that while the directive provides for an update, it imposes no specific timeline. He explained the Commission typically updates guidance after a period of application allows for case law to accumulate. In the interim, he confirmed the Commission will engage with Member States through transposition workshops and will publish an FAQ document in 2025 to provide guidance to stakeholders.
Commission Outlines Increased Funding for Climate Resilience
In response to a question on funding for climate adaptation, Commissioner Hoekstra on 2 September 2025 detailed the Commission’s proposals for the 2028-2034 budget. Answering PQ E-002440/25 (link), he highlighted an ambitious target to dedicate 35% of the overall budget to climate and environment objectives. He also noted proposed funding increases for the Union Civil Protection Mechanism to €10.7 billion and an overall amount of €20.1 billion for the EU solidarity mechanism to respond to disasters. A new European Climate Resilience and Risk Management Integrated Framework is expected in the second half of 2026.
Commission Addresses Heatwave Preparedness and Climate Adaptation
A group of MEPs from S&D inquired about the Commission’s measures to combat the adverse effects of heatwaves in Southern Europe. In a 5 September 2025 reply to PQ E-002654/25 (link), Commissioner Hoekstra pointed to the EU’s 2040 emissions reduction target as the primary tool to prevent the worst warming scenarios. He also mentioned that the Commission is funding updates to WHO heat-health guidance and that the Preparedness Union Strategy includes actions for climate-related hazards. For the next MFF, he reiterated the 35% green spending target, which will unlock over €700 billion for climate action, including adaptation.
Commission Has No Exchange with NGO ClientEarth on Coal Plant Lawsuits
In response to questions regarding EU funding for the NGO ClientEarth, Commissioner Roswall provided details on 3 September 2025. Answering PQ E-002487/25 (link), she confirmed that ClientEarth received an operating grant under the LIFE programme following a competitive call. She stated that the Commission has had no exchange of information with ClientEarth regarding its legal actions against coal-burning plants in 2022-2023. Roswall asserted that as a beneficiary, the NGO has full independence in implementing its work programme and the Commission does not require or encourage beneficiaries to undertake specific advocacy activities.
Review of Ecodesign Rules for Solid Fuel Heaters Underway
Responding to a question on pollutant emissions from solid fuel local space heaters, Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed on 2 September 2025 that a review of Regulation (EU) 2015/1185 is in progress. In his answer to PQ E-002441/25 (link), he stated the review is exploring various options to limit emissions, with cost considerations and rural proofing to be carefully assessed as part of the process. He clarified that the Commission has not yet reached the stage of a formal proposal and that any revised regulation would only apply to new products placed on the market.
Compatibility of Italian Coal Plant Extension with Green Deal Questioned
Valentina Palmisano (The Left) submitted PQ E-003386/2025 (link) on 3 September 2025, questioning the Italian Government’s decision to postpone the decommissioning of the ‘Federico II’ coal-fired power station in Brindisi to 2038. She asks if the Commission considers this compatible with the European Green Deal and Fit for 55 objectives, whether it constitutes a breach of Italy’s decarbonisation commitments, and what measures will be taken to ensure such industrial areas are not excluded from the climate neutrality trajectory. A response from the Commission is pending.
Follow-up on Consequences for EU-Funded NGOs
In a follow-up question, PQ E-003375/2025 (link), submitted on 3 September 2025, Friedrich Pürner (NI) presses the Commission for an answer to a previous query. He asks what disciplinary, legal, or administrative consequences the Commission will draw regarding NGOs like ClientEarth and Friends of the Earth, and any EU officials involved, in relation to their EU-funded activities. A response from the Commission is pending.
Critical Raw Materials
Commission Outlines Support for New Caledonian Nickel Sector
André Rougé (PfE) questioned the Commission on its plans to support the competitiveness of French nickel from New Caledonia, a key resource for the EU’s strategic autonomy. In a 4 September 2025 response to PQ E-002999/25 (link), Executive Vice-President Séjourné confirmed that the CaledoNi Project was recognised as a Strategic Project under the Critical Raw Materials (CRM) Act, granting it support for access to finance. He also highlighted a €30.9 million budget support programme for New Caledonia’s energy transition, aimed at greening the industrial sector and positioning it as a leader in green nickel, thereby lowering electricity costs and boosting competitiveness.
Nuclear Materials Outside Scope of Critical Raw Materials Act
Jorge Martín Frías (PfE) asked in PQ E-002724/25 (link) why radioactive minerals are not included in the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). In his 4 September 2025 reply, Executive Vice-President Séjourné explained that the CRMA excludes materials mainly used as combustion fuels. He clarified that nuclear materials fall under the exclusive competence of the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom), managed by the Euratom Supply Agency. He also noted that under the TFEU, it is up to individual Member States, such as Spain, to decide whether to prohibit the exploration and mining of radioactive minerals on their territory.
Strategic Project Status Under CRMA Does Not Guarantee Financing
In response to a query about the financing of projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act, Executive Vice-President Séjourné clarified the process on 3 September 2025. Answering PQ E-002595/25 (link), he stated that being recognised as a Strategic Project does not grant automatic access to financing. All financial institutions must conduct their own due diligence, and projects must still apply through open calls to receive support from instruments like the Innovation Fund. The Commission monitors all selected projects and can withdraw their strategic status if requirements are not met.
Transport & Industry
Commission Clarifies Stance on Electric-Only Corporate Fleets
A group of ECR MEPs questioned the Commission about a reported plan to require electric-only vehicle fleets for companies from 2030. In a 5 September 2025 reply to PQ E-003103/25 (link), Commissioner Tzitzikostas clarified that no decision has yet been taken on the proposal. He confirmed that an impact assessment is being prepared and will be published with any legislative proposal. He assured the MEPs that the assessment will evaluate different policy options and will not be limited to a “one-size-fits-all approach,” with the final proposal’s content depending on the assessment’s outcome.
Net Zero Industry Act to Include Resilience Criteria in Public Procurement
In response to a question on strengthening supply chain resilience, Executive Vice-President Séjourné on 2 September 2025 highlighted the role of the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA). Answering PQ E-002005/25 (link), he stated that from the end of 2025, public procurement and renewable energy auctions must include resilience requirements to avoid excessive dependency on single countries. He also pointed to the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework, which allows Member States to support manufacturing capacities for net-zero technologies in the EU, and noted the Commission will explore conditions for foreign investments to ensure they contribute to the European industrial base.
Commission Defends EU Ceramics Industry Against Unfair Competition
In response to a question on the challenges facing the European ceramics industry, Executive Vice-President Séjourné acknowledged issues like high energy costs and competition from jurisdictions with lower standards. In his 2 September 2025 reply to PQ E-002222/25 (link), he confirmed the Commission stands ready to defend EU industry, citing recent definitive anti-dumping measures on ceramic tiles from India, Türkiye, and China. He also highlighted the upcoming Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act, which will assess resilience and sustainability criteria to foster demand for clean European products and address permitting bottlenecks.
Social Leasing Schemes for Used EVs are Member State Responsibility
Following a query on including used vehicles in social leasing schemes, Commissioner Tzitzikostas responded on 3 September 2025. In his answer to PQ E-002996/25 (link), he noted that the Commission has recommended Member States consider such schemes for vulnerable users. However, he clarified that it is the responsibility of Member States to decide whether and how to implement them under their national Social Climate Fund plans. The Commission has provided guidance but does not envisage any specific Union legislation on the matter.
EU Rules for Transport of Dangerous Goods Cover Batteries
In response to a question on the transport of batteries, Commissioner Tzitzikostas confirmed on 1 September 2025 that existing rules for the carriage of dangerous goods include specific provisions for batteries. Answering PQ E-002817/25 (link), he explained that these rules are established at the international level (UNECE, OTIF) and are incorporated into EU law via Directive 2008/68/EC, making them mandatory for transport within the Union. He added that the Commission remains open to dialogue with EU manufacturers on the topic.
Barcelona Airport Expansion Must Comply with EU Environmental Law
Regarding the proposed expansion of Barcelona-El Prat airport, Commissioner Roswall stated on 1 September 2025 that Spanish authorities must fulfil all relevant requirements of EU environmental law, particularly the Habitats, Birds, and Environmental Impact Assessment Directives. In her reply to PQ E-002480/25 (link), she also noted that CO2 emissions from flights within the scope of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) will continue to be covered by the ETS carbon price, as the cap on emissions will remain at the same level regardless of the airport’s expansion.
Role of Nuclear Energy in AI Competitiveness and Energy Resilience
Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, and Dick Erixon (ECR) submitted PQ E-003455/2025 (link) on 5 September 2025. They argue that as the AI race accelerates, Europe’s limited baseload energy capacity, partly due to underinvestment in nuclear power, threatens its digital competitiveness and strategic autonomy. Citing US private investment in small modular reactors for AI and Sweden’s move to expand its nuclear fleet, they ask how the Commission assesses the role of nuclear energy in supporting Europe’s AI competitiveness and energy resilience. A response from the Commission is pending.
Revision of 2035 Combustion Engine Ban
Citing warnings from automotive industry leaders about job losses and reliance on China, Jorge Buxadé Villalba (PfE) asked about the planned revision of the 2035 ban on new combustion engine vehicles in PQ E-003351/2025 (link) on 1 September 2025. He requests the expected timeline and scope of the revision and asks if the Commission will assess the legislation’s impact on employment, competitiveness, and industrial sovereignty before presenting any proposal. A response from the Commission is pending.
Commission Queried on “Green Fares” in Air Travel
In PQ E-003404/2025 (link), submitted on 3 September 2025, Siegbert Frank Droese (ESN) asks the Commission about the results of “green fare” projects offered by airlines since 2023. The MEP also asks for the Commission’s view on the low uptake of these fares by passengers (0.1-2%) and whether it supports the myclimate foundation’s study on the concept. A response from the Commission is pending.
Commission Highlights Initiatives to Attract International Talent
Joachim Streit (Renew) asked what the EU is doing to compete with the US for highly skilled international talent, citing the US Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme as a successful model. In a 5 September 2025 reply to PQ E-002642/25 (link), Commissioner Brunner pointed to Directive (EU) 2016/801, which allows non-EU students and researchers to stay for at least nine months after their studies to seek employment. He also highlighted the EU Talent Pool job matching platform and the €500 million ‘Choose Europe for Science’ package under Horizon Europe as key initiatives to attract and retain talent.
Commission’s Stance on Druzhba Pipeline Attacks Sought
András Gyürk (PfE) submitted PQ E-003418/2025 (link) on 4 September 2025, concerning recent attacks on the Druzhba oil pipeline, which he alleges were deliberately carried out by Ukraine. Citing a previous Commission statement that weaponising energy is unacceptable, he asks if the Commission maintains this stance, if it will publicly condemn Ukraine’s actions and statements, and what practical actions it will take to prevent the blackmail of EU Member States via their energy supply. A response from the Commission is pending.
Details Sought on EU Energy and Investment Pledges to the US
In PQ E-003451/2025 (link), submitted on 5 September 2025, Barbara Bonte (PfE) questions the Commission about promises allegedly made to the US President in July 2025, concerning €750 billion in energy purchases and a €600 billion investment commitment. She asks whether these promises are legally binding, what the exact terms are, and how they can be reconciled with the EU’s goal of strategic independence, particularly as the US maintains a 15% import duty on the EU. A response from the Commission is pending.
Safeguards for European Industries in New EU-USA Trade Agreement
Daniel Buda (PPE) raised concerns on 5 September 2025 in PQ E-003442/2025 (link) about a new EU-USA framework agreement on trade. He notes that while the US has cut automobile tariffs, taxes will still apply to EU wines, spirits, and metals, and the EU has committed to wholesale imports of US energy and digital chips. He asks how the Commission intends to safeguard the competitiveness of the adversely affected European sectors and what concrete compensatory measures it has in mind. A response from the Commission is pending.
EU Strategy Amidst Continued Ukraine War and Potential US Aid Withdrawal
Loucas Fourlas (PPE) submitted PQ E-003437/2025 (link) on 5 September 2025, asking for the Commission’s assessment of the situation in Ukraine, especially in light of a potential withdrawal of US military support. He questions how the Commission intends to strengthen European defence capacity, energy resilience, and the protection of critical infrastructure in the context of the ongoing conflict and the need for greater EU strategic autonomy. A response from the Commission is pending.
