JRC Working Paper Series For a Fair, Innovative and Sustainable Economy, 13/2025
This paper analyses the implementation of the energy transition in the EU and the continuation of EU energy policy, from the Green Deal to the new Clean Industrial Deal. It draws from sustainability transitions research to generate an academic perspective on the current geopolitical challenges facing the energy sector. Although the energy transition has advanced, progress has been slow, with some member states lagging behind. The key problems include: lack of tradition in considering geopolitics in energy policy; differing progress and energy profiles in member states; tensions between achieving rapid decarbonisation and improved competitiveness; investment and knowledge needs to create more resilient energy systems; and impacts of increasing critical raw materials acquisition. The paper also presents potential solutions, such as consistent signals to investors; openly assessing and discussing tensions between different policy objectives; increased alignment between member states to create a more uniform “EU energy sector”; and cultivating diverse international collaboration for mutual benefit and based on principles of justice and fairness. We need to find ways to balance pursuits of competitiveness and strategic autonomy with environmental sustainability and social justice.
KIVIMAA Paula;
2025-09-15
European Commission
JRC142668
https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC142668,
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