On 12th June the European Parliament (EP) adopted the report (470 for, 86 against, 53 abstentions), drafted by Edit Herczog, on behalf of Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE), at the Plenary in Strasbourg. This is an own initiative report seeking a motion for an EP resolution.

Report on Engaging in energy policy cooperation with partners beyond our borders: A strategic approach to secure, sustainable and competitive energy supply (2012/2029(INI))

In living memory energy has been used as a “weapon” of foreign policy which leaves countries which are net importers of energy at a distinct disadvantage. With this in mind the Commission has brought forward a proposal outlining ways in which the European Union (EU) can ameliorate this situation as secure, sustainable and competitive energy is of fundamental importance to the EU's economy, industry and citizens and a core goal of EU policy. Compared with other importers Europe is a major purchaser of energy on the global markets and, although this can be perceived as a weakness, it should also be seen as a strength owing to the fact that, if we act in a coordinated manner, we should be able to negotiate better deals based on the enormous quantities of energy we consume. In addition past bilateral energy agreements, between individual Member States and third supplier or transit countries, have resulted in fragmentation of the internal market rather than a strengthening of the EU's energy supply and competitiveness.

"The regulatory framework which has been progressively put in place at the EU level entails important consequences towards partner countries such as in the field of network access, safety and competition provisions. With the 2014 deadline set by the European Council to complete the internal market for electricity and gas, it is urgent to fully unfold its external dimension. Energy is a global business. The EU imports over 60% of its gas and over 80% of its oil. It faces growing competition for fossil fuel resources, including from emerging countries and energy producers themselves. Growing population and rising standards of living could push global energy demand up by 40% by 2030. Energy production and use threaten climate systems as well as the environment and human health. Rising energy demand is pushing up global prices, bringing energy poverty to many and playing havoc in countries where fossil fuel subsidies are prevalent." (COM(2011) 539)

With all this in mind the Rapporteur believes that in the area of European energy policy the Member States should focus on a common approach and, by extending the EU's sphere of influence beyond its borders, create greater competition among its external partners also promoting regulatory convergence with its neighbours.

On 8th May ITRE adopted the own initiative report, drafted by Edit Herczog (48 for, 10 against, 1 abstention) with recommendations in the following areas:

Internal energy market better coordination at EU level:

Diversification enhanced security of European energy supply:

Sustainability strengthened partnership with supplier countries and international organisations:

The Staff Working Papers can be read here and here

The Report can be read here

Or alternatively visit the website: http://www.europarl.europa.eu

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