2050 Roadmap
The Energy Council today agreed Presidency Conclusions supported by 26 Member States on the 2050 Energy Roadmap. UK Energy Minister Charles Hendry, who attended the talks, welcomed the progress made on this important document and said:
"Whilst I am disappointed that not all Member States could sign up to the Conclusions, I am encouraged that Commissioner Oettinger has said there will be further Commission initiatives this year to move forward the debate on a post 2020 Climate and Energy framework. This is important to stimulate the necessary investment to deliver our low carbon future."
Offshore Oil and Gas
Commissioner Oettinger gave the Energy Council an update on progress on draft legislation on the safety of offshore oil and gas exploration.
Charles Hendry said:
"Whilst the UK supports any measure which will improve EU standards in this area, we do have concerns over the proposal for a regulation rather than a directive. I therefore welcome the flexibility on this issue which Commissioner Oettinger has signalled today and look forward to working with him and others under the Cypriot Presidency to secure effective and enforceable legislation."