FEDARENE’s Recommendations for a Forward-Looking Multiannual Financial Framework post-2020

FEDARENE is the premier European network of regional and local organisations which implement, co-ordinate and facilitate sustainable energy and environment policies. As such, we consider the debate on the post-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) as an opportunity to address the weaknesses of the European Union’s approach to funding, and together achieve our vision of a united and sustainable Europe.

Illustration : Christian Lue

5 steps to a Budget for a United and Sustainable Europe
April 2018

1. The energy transition is a driver for European Cohesion.

The energy transition is not an adjustment variable for the budget of the European Union but on the contrary, it is an essential part of the solution that maximises its impact. It is a driving force that brings benefits across all sectors and for all levels of society through the creation of sustainable jobs and investment opportunities, the improvement of health and the quality of life and addressing social inequalities.

2. The added value of the European Union’s financial programmes is made tangible through local and regional initiatives.

Local and regional initiatives show that cohesion policy is both a catalyst for investment and a means for beneficiaries to raise their ambitions and take ownership of the European objectives, specifically those of the Energy Union.

3. The accessibility of funds is a prerequisite for effectiveness and efficiency.

Current rules and processes remain prohibitive for local and regional authorities and organisations who are seeking to finance their Climate and Energy actions plans. Looking at procedures from the point of view of potential beneficiaries should be a core principle for the simplification process.

4. Complementarity of funding programmes can be achieved through common frameworks and local and regional platforms.

Mutualising research and innovation efforts in Europe, and up-scaling investments in sustainable energy, can only be achieved through harmonised financial programmes and territorially anchored platforms with the aim of aggregating projects, interacting with various EU financial programmes and initiatives, and ensuring a reliable interface between investors, project developers and citizens.

5. Financial programmes must be made available for all levels and scales.

Research and innovation programmes should be specifically structured so as to enable local and regional level activity and must continue to enable coordination and networking activities, dissemination and use of knowledge.