Recommendations for a Forward-Looking MFF post-2020

In June 2017, FEDARENE issued its Berlin Declaration “Stand Together for a United Europe”. Almost one year later, we reiterate our commitment: the European Union and the constructive cooperation of its members is the only way to fight climate change effectively, to achieve higher common standards for a modern low-carbon economy, and to assure a sustainable future for all. In this context, the negotiations on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) are of utmost importance to European regions and cities as they count on its support to finance their climate and energy plans.

“We must start seeing the energy transition as a creator of revenues and economic growth, not as an expenditure,” explains Julije Domac, President of FEDARENE and CEO of North-West Croatia Regional Energy Agency (HR). “Regions and Cities count on the catalysing effects of the EU budget to achieve their long-term Climate and Energy targets and contribute to Europe’s international commitments”, he added.

Central to FEDARENE’s recommendations for a Forward-Looking MFF post-2020 is the idea that the energy transition, as well as local and regional platforms, provide solutions to the budgetary challenges currently under discussion. Indeed, we believe that the current negotiations on the EU budget could establish the right momentum towards EU’s leadership in tackling climate change and undertaking the energy transition. This will require member states, regions, municipalities and citizens to work together.

Michael Geissler, Secretary General of FEDARENE and CEO of Berlin Energy Agency (DE) explained that “local and regional authorities and their energy agencies are in a unique position to support the implementation of sustainable energy strategies. It is crucial that the European Union’s budget continues to empower them if we are to achieve our energy and climate goals”.

This is why we consider the debate on the post-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework 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.