European Parliament
Lena Ek (ALDE ). –
Mr President, the recent crisis between Russia and Ukraine over gas supply has shown that it is more important than ever to have a European energy market that is less dependent on imports. This will provide not only enormous opportunities for the European energy industry, including renewables, but also a window of opportunity for tackling climate change, boosting growth and creating new jobs. In order to achieve this we want more transparency, better regulation, a renovated and functioning grid, a European energy strategy, debate on self-sufficiency and solidarity between Member States, and rules that enable consumers to decide on their own consumption in a workable way. We therefore welcome the green paper as well as the Presidency’s programme.
There is much to be done, but I think we can do it.

