1. What can we expect from the EU Council going forward?
As Spain settles into its Presidency of the EU Council, Tibor Schaffhauser, Co-Founder of the Green Policy Center provides his insights into what the next 12 months, following the end of Spain’s 6-month term, might hold for Europe’s green transition. What is particularly interesting is Hungary’s presidency term, which begins in July 2024, marking the final semester of the current 18-month presidency trio. Read the full story here.
2. Romania set to launch its inaugural CfD renewables auctions
Taking a look at the green transition on the ground, Romania recently announced that it will soon launch its first auction for a contract-for-difference (CfD) support scheme for renewables, with successful bidders expected to be announced before the end of the year. Read the full story here.
3. Do Croats still prioritise economic growth over nature conservation?
In a recent survey conducted by Croatia’s Economy and Sustainable Development Ministry, over 80 per cent of respondents said that creating nature conservation areas is important for the preservation of endangered plants and animals. At the same time, economic development looks to take priority over nature protection. Read the full story here.
4. Polish authorities react swiftly to a pipeline leak incident
Over the past weekend, a leak in the Druzhba oil pipeline was detected. The pipeline’s operator on the Polish side responded promptly to the incident, fixing the damaged area of the pipeline by Tuesday. Read the full story here.
5. European Commission aids Serbia’s regional energy leadership
A recent announcement of a non-refundable EU grant of 8.44 million euros for energy-related assistance will aid Serbia in financing the reconstruction of its Bistrica Hydropower Plant and a feasibility study with an environmental impact assessment for the Central Balkans Corridor project – positioning the country as a “significant energy hub of the European power system.” Read the full story here.