Renew Europe has welcomed the European Parliament’s adoption of its COP31 resolution, calling on governments to stop delaying climate action and accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels.
Every year of delay leaves households and businesses exposed to volatile energy prices while increasing the costs of climate damage.
The UN Environment Programme warns that current policies put the world on course for 2.8°C of warming. COP31 must deliver a credible response to that warning.
Ahead of the climate summit in Antalya, Türkiye, from 9-20 November, a Renew Europe delegation will join calls for the EU to lead by example. Liberals want greater investment in clean energy to protect citizens’ purchasing power, strengthen energy security and safeguard Europe’s competitiveness.
The European Commission must propose an ambitious EU electrification target, alongside ambitious targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency. Delivering on these goals will require faster investment in grids, storage and flexibility, enabling clean electricity to reach transport, heating and industry.
Emma Ytterell MEP (Centerpartiet, SE), shadow rapporteur on the resolution, said:
“Europeans are paying the price of fossil fuel dependence through their energy bills and our vulnerability to countries that use the supply of energy as a weapon. Investing in clean electricity, modern grids and energy efficiency means investing in our security and our citizens’ purchasing power.
An ambitious European electrification target would give businesses a clear direction and help drive investment in cleaner transport, heating and industry. At COP31, Europe must also push governments to deliver on their promises. We need practical action to phase out fossil fuels and support for the countries facing the worst effects of climate change.”
Renew Europe has pushed for the resolution to build on the First International Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels held in in Santa Marta, Colombia earlier this year.
This includes addressing investor-state dispute settlement provisions that allow companies to challenge climate policies and seek compensation for decisions to phase out fossil fuels.
Liberals are also calling for concrete progress at COP31 on reducing emissions, transitioning away from fossil fuels and providing climate finance for vulnerable countries.
Europe must work with international partners to ensure that all major emitters contribute their fair share. Governments must leave Antalya with a clear plan to accelerate climate action and turn their commitments into results.