This report covers parliamentary questions published in the late September 2025, focusing on the European Union’s energy and climate policy landscape. Key themes emerging from parliamentary scrutiny include the implementation and social impact of Green Deal legislation such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and ETS2, the resilience and integration of the EU’s energy infrastructure, and the financing mechanisms supporting the green transition. Significant attention was also given to the EU’s energy security and external partnerships, particularly concerning the recent EU-US trade agreement, the phase-out of Russian energy imports, and geopolitical tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. Of the 30 parliamentary questions covered in this period, 18 have received a response from the European Commission, while 12 remain pending.
❗ Stagnation of Greek Energy Communities
In a question submitted on 9 July 2025, Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left) raised concerns about the mass rejection of connection applications for energy communities in Greece due to a reported “lack of electrical space,” which he argues prioritises commercial projects over self-generation initiatives. The query, detailed in E-002798/25, asked the Commission to assess Greece’s compliance with EU regulations and to intervene to ensure fair network access. In a response on 23 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen stated that the Commission is currently assessing Member States’ transposition of the Renewable Energy and Electricity Market Directives regarding energy communities and does not comment on ongoing assessments. He added that the Commission plans to adopt a Citizens Energy Package by the end of 2025 to enhance citizen participation and will also propose a European Grids Package to accelerate grid deployment.
❗ Future of German Biogas Power Stations and State Aid Approval
David McAllister, Lena Düpont, and Jens Gieseke (all PPE) submitted a question on 20 August 2025 regarding the future of 319 biogas power stations in Lower Saxony, Germany, whose subsidies are expiring. As detailed in E-003257/25, the MEPs highlighted that a crucial “Biomass Package” agreed by the German Bundestag is awaiting Commission approval under state aid rules, putting hundreds of megawatts of installed capacity at risk. They asked when the Commission intends to complete the approval procedure. In her response on 26 September 2025, Executive Vice-President Ribera confirmed the Commission is in contact with German authorities regarding the amendments. She clarified that it is the Member State’s responsibility to notify new aid and ensure the timeliness of information, noting the Commission has two months to issue a decision after a complete notification is lodged. Citing confidentiality, she declined to comment on the specific details or predict the outcome or timing of the decision.
❗ Turning Sargassum Seaweed into an Economic Opportunity
A group of MEPs led by Rody Tolassy (PfE) asked the Commission on 2 July 2025 about its strategy to support innovative solutions for managing the influx of Sargassum seaweed in the West Indies. The question, E-002707/25, highlighted the health, environmental, and economic damage caused by the seaweed and called for ambitious funding to turn it into a sustainable resource. In a response on 24 September 2025, Commissioner Síkela explained that since 2023, the EU has been addressing the crisis through a Global Gateway investment initiative to create scalable sargassum value chains. He noted that a Team Europe approach has secured EUR 66 million in grants and EUR 320 million in loans for the Caribbean, with various EU funds like Horizon Europe and the European Regional Development Fund also available to support innovation.
❓ Hydropower Interests and River Passability in Germany
Niclas Herbst (PPE) submitted a question on 28 September 2025 concerning the slow implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive in Germany, citing a case on the Luhe River where a fish passage was temporarily removed to prioritise hydropower interests. The query, E-003758/2025, asks for the Commission’s view on Germany’s compliance, what enforcement actions it will take, and whether it intends to tighten guidelines on hydropower use in lowland waters. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Spain’s Electricity Interconnection Delays
Dolors Montserrat (PPE) questioned the Commission on 7 May 2025 about the vulnerability of Spain’s electricity system and its persistent failure to meet EU interconnection targets, as detailed in E-001845/25. Highlighting that Spain’s interconnection level remains around 3% despite a 2020 target of 10%, she asked what steps the Commission is taking to ensure the 15% target for 2030 is met. In his reply on 26 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed the EU continues to support the integration of the Iberian Peninsula, citing the Bay of Biscay project which will double France-Spain interconnectivity by 2028. He announced a “Grids Package” by the end of 2025 to improve infrastructure planning and noted that while low interconnection rates can affect market integration, they do not solely determine system stability.
❗ Grid Resilience and Consumer Protection During Heatwaves
On 6 August 2025, Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE) asked the Commission how it plans to accelerate the deployment of battery storage, interconnectors, and demand-side flexibility to cope with electricity demand surges during heatwaves, as seen in June-July 2025. The question, E-003191/25, also sought information on measures to protect consumers in vulnerable Member States like Romania from extreme price spikes. Commissioner Jørgensen responded on 23 September 2025, stating that the Commission is in continuous talks with Member States in Southeastern Europe to implement tools like mobilising non-fossil flexibility and protecting consumers. He highlighted the upcoming European Grids Package and a Citizens Energy Package, which will aim to help Member States better protect consumers, address summer energy poverty, and enable participation in demand response schemes.
❗ Mandatory Gas Storage Filling and National Sovereignty
Georg Mayer and Harald Vilimsky (both PfE) submitted a question on 21 July 2025 regarding the planned extension of mandatory gas storage filling until 2027. In E-003021/25, they asked for the criteria for deviating from filling targets and how the Commission will ensure decision-making power remains with Member States. Commissioner Jørgensen replied on 23 September 2025, explaining that deviations could be warranted by unfavourable market conditions, such as signs of manipulation. He stated that the framework balances security with market principles, allowing flexibility for Member States to define their own filling trajectories as long as it does not negatively impact neighbouring countries or the internal market.
❗ Financing Gap for Strategic Gas Procurement
Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE) raised the issue of a financing gap for strategic gas procurement on 6 August 2025, noting the lack of a dedicated EU fund for Member States to purchase gas when prices are low to meet storage targets. The question, E-003190/25, asked what measures the Commission intends to propose to ensure all Member States can afford to acquire gas at optimal times. In his response on 23 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen emphasised that the EU has consistently exceeded its storage targets since 2022. He pointed out that the Gas Security of Supply regulation provides for market-based measures that do not require state purchasing and that a well-functioning internal market is the most effective tool for affordability. He added that the Commission is exploring the full potential of the AggregateEU joint purchasing mechanism.
❗ Electricity Price Disparities in South-East Europe
Nikolas Farantouris (The Left) on 16 July 2025 questioned the Commission about successive derogations granted to the Austrian transmission system operator (APG), which he claims limit interconnection capacity and contribute to significantly higher electricity prices in South-East Europe compared to Central Europe. The query, E-002930/25, asked if the Commission considers these derogations justified and what measures it will take to address the price differences. In a 23 September 2025 response, Commissioner Jørgensen acknowledged the issue and stated the Commission is engaging bilaterally with affected Member States. He underlined that such derogations must be exceptional, limited to what is necessary for operational security, and are granted by national regulatory authorities for one year at a time.
❗ Commission Guidance on Demand Response Compensation Models
On 18 June 2025, Bruno Tobback (S&D) asked if the Commission will publish guidance on compensation models for electricity demand response through aggregation, as detailed in E-002465/25. He noted that ambiguity in current rules has created market access barriers for aggregators in countries like France. Commissioner Jørgensen, responding on 26 September 2025, affirmed the high importance of developing demand response and removing barriers. He stated the Commission is monitoring the implementation of the internal electricity market directive and is working on a new Network Code on Demand Response, planned for adoption in the first quarter of 2026, which will address remaining barriers.
❗ EU Support for Bulgaria’s Energy Transition
Ilhan Kyuchyuk (Renew) asked the Commission on 16 July 2025 about specific mechanisms and targeted programs available to help Bulgaria accelerate its transition to alternative fuels and reduce its dependence on imported petroleum products. The question, E-002905/25, sought clarity on support from REPowerEU and the Just Transition Fund. In his response on 24 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen outlined the extensive EU funding available, noting that at least 30% of the 2021-2027 EU budget is dedicated to climate action. For Bulgaria specifically, he highlighted EUR 6.17 billion from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (with EUR 3 billion for the green transition), EUR 1.8 billion from cohesion policy funding, and access to instruments like the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility and the Technical Support Instrument.
❓ Measures to Reduce High Energy Prices for EU Businesses
Piotr Müller (ECR) submitted a question on 23 September 2025 highlighting that EU businesses continue to pay significantly more for electricity and gas than competitors in the US or China. The query, E-003664/2025, asks what specific measures the Commission will take to reduce energy prices, including revising the ETS and ETS2, and whether it will admit that its own climate regulations are largely responsible for the high costs. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Allegations of Misused EU Funds and Gender Discrimination in Greek Renewables
On 23 September 2025, Daniel Freund (Verts/ALE) raised allegations of corruption, market distortion, and gender discrimination in the Greek renewable energy sector involving EU-funded projects. The question, E-003671/2025, cites reports of a local development organisation allegedly coercing participants, obtaining double funding, and excluding women entrepreneurs. Freund asks if the Commission is aware of the allegations and what measures it and OLAF will take to prevent misuse of funds and ensure equal access for women. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Alleged Corruption in Romania’s Environmental Promotion Authority
Harald Vilimsky and Georg Mayer (both PfE) submitted a question on 23 September 2025 regarding allegations of corruption and misappropriation of EU funds in Romania. The query, E-003688/2025, points to an investigative report suggesting that funding from the ‘Casa Verde’ and REPowerEU programmes was awarded on political rather than objective grounds, prompting an investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). The MEPs ask what preventive measures the Commission is taking to protect EU funds from corruption in Romania. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Clarifying the Impact of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive
Markus Buchheit (ESN) on 30 June 2025 raised concerns that the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) will force millions of homeowners into costly renovations, placing a heavy financial burden on citizens. The question, E-002643/25, asked how the Commission plans to protect homeowners and whether it has assessed the social impact. In his 23 September 2025 reply, Commissioner Jørgensen clarified that the revised EPBD does not impose mandatory renovation obligations on residential buildings. Instead, it sets national trajectories for Member States to reduce average primary energy use, giving them flexibility on how to achieve these targets while prioritising financial support for vulnerable households. He noted that over EUR 100 billion is available under the current MFF for building renovation, supplemented by the EUR 86.7 billion Social Climate Fund from 2026.
❗ Defending ETS2 and EPBD Against Calls for Repeal
Erik Kaliňák (NI) submitted a question on 24 June 2025 arguing that the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the ETS2 emissions trading system will significantly increase the cost of living and should be repealed. The query, E-002526/25, asked if the Commission would listen to citizens’ calls to abolish the regulations. Responding on 26 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen defended the policies, stating the EPBD aims to cut long-term energy bills and improve living comfort, while ETS2 provides a price signal to encourage decarbonisation. He highlighted that the Social Climate Fund, funded mainly by ETS2 revenues, will mobilise EUR 86.7 billion to support vulnerable citizens. He also stressed the global relevance of the policies in setting benchmarks and driving innovation.
❓ Call for Member State-Specific Impact Assessment of 2040 Climate Target
On 23 September 2025, Piotr Müller (ECR) questioned the Commission’s proposal for a 90% emissions reduction target by 2040, as outlined in the amendment to the European Climate Law. The question, E-003680/2025, argues that the existing pan-European impact assessment is insufficient and calls for an assessment broken down by individual Member States to account for different energy mixes and socioeconomic costs. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Economic Impact of the EU Deforestation Regulation on Nordic Forestry
Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, and Dick Erixon (all ECR) submitted a question on 26 September 2025 criticising the EU’s Deforestation Regulation as “slogan-driven politics” that harms the Nordic forestry industry. The query, E-003746/2025, argues that sustainable forestry practices in countries like Sweden are incorrectly categorised as deforestation, putting jobs at risk. The MEPs ask how the Commission will address the economic consequences and whether it will consider exempting Sweden and Finland from the regulation. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Defends 2035 ICE Ban Amid Automotive Sector Crisis
Elena Donazzan (ECR) on 4 August 2025 highlighted the ongoing crisis in the European automotive sector, citing stagnant demand for electric vehicles and reduced production at manufacturers like Stellantis. In her question, E-003174/25, she asked if the Commission would maintain the 2035 ban on new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and review legislation to ensure technological neutrality. Commissioner Hoekstra, in a 23 September 2025 response, stated that the Commission is accelerating its review of CO2 standards for cars, which will be fact-based. He reiterated that the 2035 target creates predictability for investors and that a technology-neutral approach, in which e-fuels have a role to play, will be considered as part of the review, for which a public consultation is ongoing.
❓ Introduction of E20 Petrol and the EU-Mercosur Agreement
On 25 September 2025, Kosma Złotowski (ECR) asked the Commission to confirm if it is considering the introduction of E20 petrol (containing 20% biocomponents) to reduce emissions. The question, E-003726/2025, also raises concerns about the fuel’s impact on older cars and questions whether the EU-Mercosur Free Trade Agreement could facilitate the import of raw materials for biofuels, potentially undermining the EU’s goal of raw material self-sufficiency. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Impact of Anti-Dumping Duties on the European Abrasives Industry
A group of ECR MEPs led by Francesco Torselli submitted a question on 22 September 2025 regarding provisional anti-dumping duties of up to 136.3% on fused alumina grit from China. The query, E-003660/2025, warns that these duties threaten the European abrasives industry, which depends on this raw material for strategic sectors like aerospace and defence. The MEPs ask if the Commission will urgently review the duties and consider anti-circumvention measures for finished products containing the material. A response from the Commission is pending.
EU-US Relations
❗ EU-US Energy Deal Aligned with REPowerEU, Commission States
Petr Bystron (ESN) on 31 July 2025 questioned the Commission on what he termed a “contradictory” energy policy, citing the recent EU-US trade deal involving the purchase of USD 750 billion worth of US LNG, oil, and nuclear fuels. The question, E-003164/25, asked how this aligns with the European Green Deal. In a 22 September 2025 response, Commissioner Šefčovič clarified that the investments and purchases are commercial decisions by private companies, not financed by public EU funds. He stated the agreement is not in conflict with the EU’s decarbonisation plans, as the economy will still need these fuels on the path to climate neutrality. He stressed that the increase in US energy imports is to be implemented in the context of REPowerEU to help phase out remaining Russian energy imports.
❗ Legal Basis of EU-US Trade Deal Clarified
On 30 July 2025, Friedrich Pürner (NI) submitted a priority question, P-003152/25, asking for the legal basis upon which the Commission President negotiated the EU-US trade deal and whether the “handshake” agreement is legally binding. Commissioner Šefčovič responded on 25 September 2025, explaining that the leaders reached a political agreement, outlined in a Joint Statement, which serves as a political commitment and a roadmap for future negotiations. He clarified that the Commission has since initiated the formal process by introducing two legislative proposals under Article 207 TFEU to implement the tariff commitments, which are now subject to the ordinary legislative procedure involving the Council and European Parliament.
❓ MEPs Probe Energy and Climate Impact of EU-US Trade Deal
A group of MEPs from the Verts/ALE group, led by Michael Bloss, submitted a question on 26 September 2025 seeking clarification on the energy dimension of the recent EU-US trade deal. The query, E-003743/2025, asks for details on the legal framework for the planned USD 750 billion in US energy purchases, the projected impact on the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions, and how the Commission will ensure alignment with the European Green Deal’s climate and renewable energy targets. A response from the Commission is pending.
Russia & Sanctions
❗ Commission Confident in Legal Standing of Russian Gas Ban
Fabio De Masi (NI) on 19 July 2025 raised concerns about the legal risks of the EU’s proposal to ban Russian natural gas imports, citing an analysis from the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies. The question, E-003014/25, highlighted potential legal uncertainty and exposure of importers to compensation claims. In his 26 September 2025 reply, Commissioner Jørgensen asserted that the proposed regulation imposes an unconditional legal prohibition as a sovereign act of the EU. He argued this should enable EU importers to invoke force majeure to terminate their contracts. He added that affected companies cannot be held liable for judgments or arbitral awards from procedures that are illegal under international law.
❓ Threat to CEE Energy Security from Attacks on Druzhba Pipeline
Petra Steger (PfE) submitted a question on 24 September 2025 regarding Ukrainian attacks on the Druzhba oil pipeline in Russia, which caused supply disruptions to Hungary and Slovakia. The query, E-003703/2025, asks for the Commission’s assessment of the attacks and the associated threat to EU energy security, suggesting Ukraine has become a “significant security risk” to the EU’s energy supply. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Sanctions on EU Actors Enabling Russia’s Shadow Fleet
On 26 September 2025, Petras Auštrevičius (Renew) raised concerns about EU-based shipping companies, primarily Greek, selling vessels to actors linked to Russia’s shadow fleet for transporting oil. The question, E-003761/2025, notes that while vessel blacklists have been expanded, no individual EU shipowners have faced personal sanctions. He asks if the Commission intends to propose sanctions against EU individuals and companies knowingly enabling the shadow fleet. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Danish Companies’ Activities Indirectly Supporting Russia
A cross-party group of Danish MEPs, including Villy Søvndal (Verts/ALE) and Henrik Dahl (PPE), submitted a question on 25 September 2025 about Danish companies allegedly undermining EU sanctions. The query, E-003734/2025, cites one company importing Russian crude steel and another servicing Russian gas tankers sailing under other flags. The MEPs ask why Russian steel is not fully sanctioned and whether the Commission will work towards a ban on shipyard services for Russian gas tankers. A response from the Commission is pending.
Other External Relations
❗ EU Expects Türkiye to Commit to Good Neighbourly Relations in Eastern Mediterranean
Yannis Maniatis (S&D) on 8 August 2025 questioned the High Representative about “illegal and provocative actions” by Türkiye in the Eastern Mediterranean, including the interception of a vessel laying a subsea cable and threats to obstruct the Greece-Cyprus electrical interconnection project. The question, E-003217/25, asked about potential sanctions and measures to safeguard the interconnector. In her 25 September 2025 response, High Representative/Vice-President Kallas reiterated the EU’s expectation that Türkiye unequivocally commits to good neighbourly relations and the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law. She stated that Member States are solely responsible for applying arms export criteria and that the Council’s working party remains seized of arms exports to Türkiye.
❗ Commission Affirms Strength of EU-Africa Partnership
On 15 July 2025, Barbara Bonte (PfE) submitted a question, E-002888/25, criticising the EU’s approach to Africa as lacking strategic foresight and leading to a decline in influence. She asked for the Commission’s appraisal of the relationship and what steps are being taken to revitalise it. High Representative/Vice-President Kallas responded on 22 September 2025, stating that the EU remains Africa’s top partner in trade, investment, and security. She highlighted the Global Gateway Africa-Europe Investment Package, which targets at least EUR 150 billion of investments by 2027 in key infrastructure and serves the EU’s strategic autonomy. She affirmed that the partnership is guided by the Joint Vision for 2030 and will be reinforced at the 7th AU-EU Summit in November 2025.
