Enhancing REPowerEU Consultation Practices in CEE
A recent position paper sheds light on significant gaps in the current implementation process, particularly within the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region
As the world continues to grapple with the existential threat of climate change, the imperative for sustainable energy initiatives has become paramount. The REPowerEU project, led by the European Union, stands as one such initiative, aiming to guide Member States towards a greener future. However, the gaps should not be ignored.
The position paper, titled "Partnership Principle Violation in REPowerEU in CEE," is a product of the ongoing "Towards a climate-neutral EU" project. It assesses the CEE region's involvement in the REPowerEU initiative, uncovering concerning trends, notably the insufficient inclusion of civil society in decision-making and planning processes.
Several key issues are highlighted in the position paper. Firstly, it points out the lack of adequate public consultation in the planning and implementation of REPowerEU chapters in several CEE nations. Despite the EU's Better Regulation Guidelines recommending a consultation period of 4 to 12 weeks, most member states fall short of this standard. Consequently, policy decisions are often made with incomplete information, impeding their effectiveness.
Furthermore, a concerning trend towards favouring fossil fuel-oriented projects is observed, particularly evident in Hungary, where public funds are channelled into activities that harm the environment and perpetuate fossil fuel use. This direction contradicts the core objective of the REPowerEU initiative, which is to transition towards renewable energy and eco-friendly practices.
In light of these findings, the position paper calls for urgent reforms. Firstly, it advocates for extended consultation deadlines and policy proposal feedback. This extension would ensure that civil societies, individuals, and all relevant stakeholders have sufficient time to review proposals and provide meaningful feedback.
Secondly, it encourages member states to actively involve civil societies in policy-making processes. The incorporation of diverse perspectives is crucial for the development of well-rounded and impactful policies.
Thirdly, it urges member states to consider feedback and ideas gathered during public consultations while drafting policy proposals. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating these well-informed suggestions into their REPowerEU plans.
To amplify the reach of civil society's recommendations, the paper also underscores the significance of ensuring widespread access to national media.
The findings and recommendations presented in the position paper underscore the urgency of enhancing democratic participation in decision-making processes. While REPowerEU offers a promising roadmap to a sustainable future, its success relies heavily on the engagement of all stakeholders. Through active and informed civil society participation, member states can better align their actions with the initiative's core objective of achieving a greener and more sustainable Europe.