Regions committed to energy transition and tackling climate change

Being a European regional organisation covering a large share of the peripheral and maritime areas of Europe, the CPMR feels particularly concerned by the EU Energy and Climate policies. It believes that a territorial dimension and the mobilisation of all levels of governance are fundamental and can enhance the effectiveness of these policies.

The first signs of impact that might be associated with climate change are already being witnessed on the ground. Maritime regions all over the periphery of Europe, being at the frontline, are strongly committed to contributing to Climate Action policies, which are likely to mitigate its causes, and also to implement climate adaptation policies on the ground.

Integrated governance is also necessary for the Energy Union to ensure that all energy-related actions at European, national, regional and local level contribute to its objectives.

Renewable energy is often in abundance in the periphery of Europe and its exploitation can have a significant impact on their economies, contribute to the prosperity of their industries and populations, provide significant socio-economic benefits to their societies, contribute to the objectives of economic, social and territorial cohesion, as well as to alleviating permanent structural handicaps outlined in Article 174 of the Treaty. However, despite the provisions in the relevant legislation, peripheral regions are disadvantaged in comparison with more central, more industrialised and more densely populated areas due to market failures.

When it comes to new-generation renewable energy sources, such as marine energies, these offer a huge opportunity to contribute to the research and innovation component of the Energy Union and enhance European leadership in the area.

The CPMR considers that regional authorities can play an active role in improving energy efficiency and promoting a low carbon economy across their territories.

Within the confines of their respective political remits and financial means, regional authorities can strive to improve the performances of buildings, vehicles or public services and lead information education campaigns directed towards their industries and populations.

Last but not least, through their links with regional authorities in partner countries, they can also help promote sustainable energy policies, as well as EU competences, beyond the borders of the Union.

Mar 21

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Energy & Climate Task Force

The Task Force’s areas of action focus on:

  • issues related to “mitigating” the causes of climate change
  • issues related to the “adaptation” of these territories to the foreseeable effects of climate change.

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