This report provides a summary of Parliamentary Questions (PQs) relevant to energy and climate policy from September 2025. The inquiries cover a wide range of critical themes, including the environmental and social impacts of renewable energy projects, the resilience and governance of the EU’s electricity grid following a major blackout on the Iberian Peninsula, and the implementation and external impact of key market mechanisms like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the Emissions Trading System (ETS). MEPs also scrutinised the EU’s long-term climate strategy, international commitments ahead of COP30, and pressing energy security concerns related to external partnerships and industrial supply chains.
A total of 30 PQs are covered in this period, of which 23 have been answered by the European Commission, while 7 remain pending.
❗ Construction of a solar photovoltaic plant in Italy
In question E-002291/25, submitted on 6 June 2025, Isabella Tovaglieri (PfE) raised concerns about a planned 82-hectare solar plant in northern Italy, questioning its environmental, social, and landscape costs. The MEP asked if achieving the EU’s high renewable energy targets could lead to widespread landscape damage. In a response on 9 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen stated that the Commission does not assess individual projects but clarified that under the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive, Member States must determine if such projects require a full assessment. He noted that the revised Renewable Energy Directive requires Member States to designate “renewable acceleration areas” where environmental impact would not be significant, and highlighted Commission guidance on balancing energy production with other interests, such as through agrivoltaics.
❗ Photovoltaic plants in Granada’s Albaicín district
Lina Gálvez (S&D) submitted question E-002781/25 on 9 July 2025 regarding the approval of three photovoltaic plants in a UNESCO World Heritage site in Granada, Spain. She questioned the project’s compliance with EU legislation protecting cultural heritage and landscapes and asked what action the Commission could take. In her reply on 8 September 2025, Commissioner Roswall clarified that the EU is not a party to the Council of Europe Landscape Convention. However, she explained that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive requires authorities to assess projects like photovoltaic plants for their effects on cultural heritage and landscape, either on a case-by-case basis or via set thresholds. Roswall emphasised that national authorities are primarily responsible for implementation and that redress at the national level is the most effective way to address potential non-compliance.
❗ Felling of olive trees for solar plants in Spain
In question E-002498/25 from 23 June 2025, Jorge Buxadé Villalba and Mireia Borrás Pabón (PfE) highlighted a project in Jaén, Spain, involving the felling of 100,000 century-old olive trees to build solar plants. They asked the Commission if it considered this a welcome development and if it was aware of the competition for land pushing the agricultural community “to a cliff edge.” Commissioner Hansen responded on 8 September 2025, stating that land use decisions are a Member State competence. He noted that while changes in arable land use do not automatically trigger an EIA, photovoltaic plant projects must be assessed for significant environmental effects. Hansen acknowledged the growing competition for fertile land and mentioned the Commission’s plan to launch an EU observatory on Farmland to enhance transparency and help Member States make informed decisions.
❗ Classification of poultry by-products for biogas use
Asger Christensen (Renew), in question E-002843/25 submitted on 11 July 2025, addressed obstacles to using spent hens for biogas generation due to their classification under EU regulations. He pointed out that mobile slaughter systems, which offer a practical and high-welfare alternative where slaughterhouse capacity is insufficient, result in a classification that prevents the material’s use in renewable energy. In his response on 9 September 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi clarified that the classification depends on whether the hens were deemed fit for human consumption, regardless of whether the slaughterhouse is mobile or permanent. He confirmed that it is already possible under current rules to transform the material in question into biogas and stated that the Commission considers the rules proportionate for mitigating public and animal health risks while allowing for valorisation.
❗ Compliance of a waste-to-energy plant in Ginosa, Italy
In question E-003154/25 of 31 July 2025, Valentina Palmisano and other MEPs from The Left group questioned the compliance of a planned waste-to-energy plant in Ginosa, Italy, with EU environmental, financial, and anti-mafia law. They raised concerns about its proximity to Natura 2000 sites, a potentially flawed environmental impact assessment (EIA), and the use of EUR 68 million in cohesion funds. Commissioner Roswall replied on 12 September 2025, confirming that EIAs must consider the cumulative effects of projects and that waste management must not endanger human health or the environment. She stressed that Member States are primarily responsible for ensuring compliance and that the “Do No Significant Harm” principle was introduced for the 2021-2027 funding period, after the project in question was funded under the 2014-2020 framework.
Iberian Peninsula Blackout Investigation
❗ Risk-preparedness in the Spanish electricity sector
Following a major power cut across Spain, Portugal, and parts of France on 28 April 2025, Dolors Montserrat (PPE) submitted question E-001843/25 on 7 May 2025. She asked if the Commission had received information from the Spanish Government on the causes and whether it planned to launch an independent investigation into potential management failures. In his reply on 9 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen confirmed the Commission was informed by Spanish authorities of the incident and welcomed the publication of a national report. He stated that an investigation by an independent panel, led by experts from unaffected European transmission system operators and including ACER, had already started, as required by EU law, and will produce a final public report.
❗ Monitoring planning errors by national electricity operators
In a related question (E-001844/25) on 7 May 2025, Dolors Montserrat (PPE) asked if the Commission believed Spain’s system operator made planning errors and whether the country’s nuclear power plant closure plan should be revised given the grid’s vulnerability. Commissioner Jørgensen responded on 9 September 2025 that the Commission does not evaluate the actions of system operators, as this is the task of the independent Investigation Committee. He reiterated that each Member State has the right to determine its own energy mix and that compliance monitoring of national operators is the responsibility of the independent National Regulatory Authority.
❗ Investigation into the Iberian power outage
A group of Portuguese MEPs led by Paulo Cunha (PPE) submitted question E-001841/25 on 7 May 2025, also concerning the Iberian power outage. They asked what actions the Commission would take to investigate the causes, the current progress on cross-border interconnection projects, and how grid modernisation plans align with EU targets. Commissioner Jørgensen replied on 9 September 2025, confirming that an independent panel investigation is underway and will publish a report by September 2026. He highlighted progress on interconnections, including a new link between Portugal and Spain due by end-2025 and the Biscay Bay project, which will double capacity with France by 2028. He also announced that the Commission aims to put forward a “Grids Package” by the end of 2025 to support a modern, resilient energy system.
❗ Independence of the expert group investigating the blackout
On 5 June 2025, Dolors Montserrat and Pilar del Castillo Vera (PPE) questioned the independence of the ENTSO-e expert group investigating the 28 April blackout, noting it included representatives from Spain’s grid operator, which was also under analysis (E-002274/25). They asked if this composition ensured impartiality and if the Commission would request an additional external report from ACER. Commissioner Jørgensen responded on 9 September 2025 that the panel was set up in accordance with EU law and is led by experts from transmission system operators not affected by the incident (in this case, Austria and Hungary) to ensure impartiality. He added that ACER is a full member of the panel, along with 11 national regulatory authorities, and that the Commission awaits the outcome of its work.
Other Infrastructure
❗ Price transparency for electric vehicle recharging
In an answer provided on 11 September 2025 to question E-003009/25, Commissioner Tzitzikostas addressed the issue of price setting and transparency at public electric vehicle recharging points. He confirmed that Regulation (EU) 2023/1804, applicable since April 2024, requires that prices charged by operators must be reasonable, transparent, non-discriminatory, and easily comparable. All price components, including any idle fees, must be clearly available to users before they start a session. The Commissioner added that national authorities are responsible for monitoring compliance and that the Commission will review the regulation’s effectiveness by the end of 2026.
❗ Energy efficiency and accessibility in housing
Responding to question E-002433/25 on 11 September 2025, Commissioner Jørgensen outlined EU efforts to support accessible and energy-efficient housing. He noted that Cohesion policy funds are investing EUR 7.5 billion in 2021-2027 in the energy efficiency of housing stock and social housing, while ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities. He also mentioned a new proposal to allow Member States to increase housing funds, a new pan-European investment platform to attract private and public investment, and a forthcoming European Affordable Housing Plan in 2026. The Commission has also recommended that Member States avoid creating new accessibility barriers and remove existing ones during major renovations.
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
❗ Missing CBAM benchmark values and competitive disadvantages
Filip Turek (PfE) raised concerns in question E-002914/25 on 16 July 2025 about the lack of around 600 benchmark values needed to calculate CBAM costs, creating uncertainty and competitive disadvantages for European importers. He asked what measures the Commission was considering to provide clarity for companies needing to set prices now. In his reply on 8 September 2025, Commissioner Hoekstra stated that the Commission is working on an implementing act for the calculation rules. He noted that a recent agreement pushes the start date for the sale of CBAM certificates to 2027, meaning declarants will only purchase certificates for 2026 emissions ex-post. He confirmed the CBAM benchmarks are linked to the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) benchmarks for 2026-2030, which are currently being updated and will be adopted in early 2026.
❓ Impact of CBAM on trade relations with the US
In question E-003488/2025 submitted on 9 September 2025, Barbara Bonte (PfE) asked how the Commission assesses the likelihood of the US triggering new trade conflicts over the CBAM, particularly under a more protectionist administration. She also inquired about what diplomatic or trade measures are being prepared to prevent or respond to potential US retaliatory actions and why the Commission continues with the Green Deal and CBAM despite rising transatlantic tensions. A response from the Commission is pending.
Other Market Mechanisms
❗ Revenue from the cap on ‘excessive profits’
Moritz Körner (Renew) asked in question E-002963/25 on 17 July 2025 for a breakdown by Member State of the revenue raised from the emergency measures against high energy prices, which President von der Leyen had suggested would raise over EUR 140 billion. Commissioner Hoekstra responded on 8 September 2025, explaining that the revenue from the cap on inframarginal electricity generators, originally expected to exceed EUR 50 billion, was unlikely to materialise as estimates were based on high wholesale prices that did not persist. However, he reported that the temporary solidarity contribution from fossil fuel companies was estimated to have generated over EUR 28.6 billion for 2022 and 2023, exceeding the original estimate of EUR 25 billion.
❗ Impact of ETS2 on agricultural fuel prices in Greece
Galato Alexandraki (ECR) submitted question E-003107/25 on 26 July 2025, expressing concern that the new Emissions Trading System (ETS2) would increase agricultural diesel prices in Greece by 12 cents per litre from 2027. She asked how the Commission would manage the resulting increase in food prices and if exemptions for primary producers were considered. In his reply on 8 September 2025, Commissioner Hoekstra provided a crucial clarification: agricultural fuel is not within the scope of ETS2. Therefore, he stated, agricultural fuel prices will not change in Greece because of the new system. He added that the Social Climate Fund (SCF), of which Greece is a net beneficiary, was created to support vulnerable households and micro-enterprises through the transition.
❓ Assessing the costs and benefits of the European Green Deal
On 8 September 2025, Beatrice Timgren, Charlie Weimers, and Dick Erixon (ECR) submitted question E-003473/2025, asking for the Commission’s estimate of the European Green Deal’s impact on global average temperatures by 2050. Citing an estimated investment cost of EUR 28 trillion, the MEPs questioned the temperature reduction that would be achieved, how this is calculated, and whether emission increases by other major economies could offset the EU’s efforts. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ EU response to the International Court of Justice opinion on climate change
In two separate but related answers on 10 September 2025 (E-003097/25 and E-003166/25), Commissioner Hoekstra outlined the Commission’s position following the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Advisory Opinion on climate change. He stated that the Commission welcomes the opinion, which reflects the EU’s position and reaffirms the obligation for states to take collective and ambitious climate action. Hoekstra asserted that the Commission’s proposal for a 90% net greenhouse gas emissions reduction by 2040 is in line with the Paris Agreement and international law. He confirmed the Commission does not envisage specific new actions as an immediate follow-up but will continue to lead international efforts and called on co-legislators for a swift political agreement on the 2040 target ahead of COP30.
❗ Conflict of interest in CBAM expert groups
Barbara Bonte (PfE) submitted question E-002769/25 on 8 July 2025, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and political influence in the composition of CBAM expert groups. She noted the active participation of several EU-funded NGOs while representatives of SMEs were allegedly excluded, and asked for an independent investigation. Commissioner Hoekstra replied on 8 September 2025, stating that the Commission did not prioritise NGOs, which represent a very small share of participants, mainly composed of industry representatives. He clarified that the funding of applicant organisations was not a selection criterion and that SMEs are represented through European industry trade associations. He concluded by stating, “There is no conflict of interest and no political influence whatsoever” regarding the group’s composition or operation.
❗ Peatland management and the Carbon Removals Certification Framework
In an answer on 10 September 2025 to question E-002463/25, Commissioner Hoekstra addressed the balance between climate action and competitiveness, particularly regarding peatland management. He highlighted that the Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming (CRCF) Regulation establishes a voluntary certification framework for climate and biodiversity benefits, with a specific methodology for peatlands planned for early 2026. He also noted that the Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR) requires national plans to optimise ecological, economic, and social functions. The Commission stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement and flexibility, with the CRCF designed to connect landowners with investors to support high-quality climate action.
❓ Double standard in the energy transition
Claudiu-Richard Târziu (ECR) submitted question E-003517/2025 on 11 September 2025, asking why the Commission tolerates an apparent “double standard” in coal phase-out deadlines. He contrasted Germany’s 2038 deadline (with a possible extension to 2040) and tens of billions in compensation with the requirement for poorer eastern countries like Romania to close mines by 2025 and achieve a total phase-out by 2032 under their National Recovery and Resilience Plans, with far higher social and economic costs. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Ensuring demand meets supply in the CO2 storage market
In question E-002712/25 from 2 July 2025, Tom Berendsen and Christian Ehler (PPE) asked how the Commission expects to ensure that demand for carbon capture and storage (CCS) meets the EU’s supply-side target of 50 million tonnes of annual injection capacity by 2030. They inquired about measures to stimulate demand and address the business case if demand falls short. Commissioner Hoekstra responded on 12 September 2025, explaining that under the Net Zero Industry Act, Member States must report annually on CCS projects and needs, with the first Commission assessment report scheduled for late 2025. He noted that transparency on these reports will help industry investment decisions and that the Commission is preparing a regulatory framework to address market barriers for CO2 transport and storage infrastructure.
❗ Desalination and sustainable water use
César Luena (S&D) asked in question E-002419/25 on 16 June 2025 how the Commission will ensure that desalination, given its high environmental and energy impact, does not perpetuate unsustainable consumption patterns and is used only after water-saving measures prove insufficient. On 8 September 2025, Commissioner Roswall replied, emphasizing the Commission’s “Water Efficiency First” principle. She confirmed that desalination projects are subject to thorough assessments under EU environmental laws like the Water Framework and Marine Strategy Framework Directives. Furthermore, any EU co-funding for such projects requires a “Do No Significant Harm” check, which addresses the sustainable use of water and climate change mitigation objectives.
❗ EU stockpiling strategy, agrofuels, and food security
In question E-003125/25 from 29 July 2025, Eric Sargiacomo (S&D) inquired about the Commission’s stockpiling strategy, particularly the concept of using agricultural products intended for agrofuels as a “virtual stockpile” for food and feed during crises. He also asked if food banks could be linked with strategic stocks. Commissioner Hansen responded on 12 September 2025, confirming that the strategy involves assessing virtual stockpiles, including for agrofuels. He noted that the Renewable Energy Directive already limits food-and-feed-based biofuels. Regarding food banks, he stated that the European Social Fund Plus can co-finance their food assistance and that a recent proposal amending the Common Market Organisation regulation aims to further enhance preparedness and supply availability in severe crises.
❗ Proposed own resource based on e-waste
In an answer on 10 September 2025 to question E-003104/25, Commissioner Serafin clarified details about the proposed own resource based on e-waste. He explained that it is not a direct tax on taxpayers but a national contribution based on statistical data that Member States already collect. The Commission believes the administrative burden is limited. The proposal aims to protect the environment and support the EU’s strategic autonomy in critical raw materials like copper and platinum, as e-waste is a fast-growing stream, and collection rates remain below targets. He also noted that plastic bags are already covered by the existing own resource on non-recycled plastic packaging waste.
❓ Conflict of interest in nominating the Doade mine as a strategic project
Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE) submitted question E-003475/2025 on 8 September 2025 concerning a potential conflict of interest in the selection of the Doade lithium mine in Galicia as a strategic EU project. She alleged that a Commission expert who assessed the project was previously the director of the same project for a private company and is now director of mining at the public-private entity managing its operations. The MEP asked if this taints the process and warrants the removal of its “strategic project” status. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Circumvention of sanctions on Russian petroleum products
In a response on 10 September 2025 to question E-002665/25, Commissioner Albuquerque addressed the issue of potential circumvention of EU sanctions against Russia. She stated that ensuring full implementation and tackling circumvention is a priority, with the EU intensifying diplomatic outreach and capacity-building in third countries. Regarding a specific query about gasoil imports to Spain from Morocco, she noted they accounted for only 5% of total Spanish gasoil imports in May 2025. She stressed that Member States are responsible for enforcement and that the 18th sanctions package obliges operators and national authorities to verify the non-Russian origin of crude oil used in imported refined products.
❓ Financing of Russian gas purchases for Ukraine with EU funds
András Gyürk (PfE) submitted question E-003468/2025 on 8 September 2025 regarding a EUR 500 million loan guarantee for Ukraine to finance its gas purchases. The MEP claimed that over 50% of Ukraine’s gas imports come from Hungary and are likely of Russian origin. He asked if the Commission could confirm it is using EU funds to finance the purchase of Russian gas for a non-EU country while proposing a ban for Member States, and whether similar support would be offered to EU countries. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Preparations for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30)
On 11 September 2025, two oral questions were submitted regarding the EU’s preparations for the COP30 climate conference in Belém, Brazil. The first, O-000028/2025, asks the Council what action it is taking to ensure significant progress on raising ambition in nationally determined contributions, mobilising climate finance, and implementing the outcomes of the first Global Stocktake. A second, identical question, O-000029/2025, was put to the Commission. Responses from both institutions are pending.
