The coalition dispute over the Austrian climate plan is now causing dissatisfaction in Brussels. All countries have now submitted their corresponding plans, only those from Austria are still open, the European Commission said on Monday. An infringement procedure is now underway.
On Monday, the European Commission again called on Austria to submit its National Energy and Climate Plan (NEKP). The Brussels authority started an infringement procedure in December 2023 because Austria had not sent its NEKP draft to Brussels on time.
The final deadline is fast approaching
The NECPs outline how member states want to achieve their 2030 energy and climate goals. All Member States must submit their final, updated plans by June 30, 2024, taking into account the European Commission’s recommendations and individual assessments. The designs had to be submitted a year in advance so that the committee could make suggestions for improvements.
Gewessler presented a plan, ÖVP withdrew it
The domestic climate ministry sent the Austrian draft to Brussels in October, a few months late. Shortly afterwards, the Ministry of Karoline Edtstadler (ÖVP) withdrew the draft, as it only reflected the position of the Ministry of Climate and not that of the government.
Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) contradicted this: the other ministries were involved in the NEKP and their suggestions were adopted.
Infringement proceedings exclusively against Austria
An infringement procedure is opened when a Member State fails to comply with EU law. As a last resort, the Commission can refer the case to the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
The Commission has now closed the infringement procedures initiated in December against Bulgaria and Poland for failing to submit their plans. This leaves Austria as the only country in default.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
