Transforming technology neutrality from EU energy policy principle to practical implementation.
On February 26, the European Commission announced the Clean Industrial Deal. This new strategic set of measures aims to reconcile climate ambition with competitiveness through a comprehensive strategy, providing a robust economic framework for European industries, particularly energy-intensive sectors and clean technologies. It is accompanied by a series of complementary measures, including an Affordable Energy Action Plan, designed to lower energy costs for industries, businesses, and households in the short term while accelerating necessary structural reforms. It also introduces the Clean Industry State Aid Framework (CISAF), which seeks to support targeted investments as a structural replacement for the Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework (TCTF) and complement existing State aid frameworks.
For the European Business Nuclear Alliance, the Clean Industrial Deal and its follow-up measures mark the opportunity for a real shift in the Commission’s approach. To succeed, the EU must support the deployment of diverse and complementary decarbonisation solutions, while maintaining the competitiveness and resilience of its economy and energy systems. A fair and balanced treatment of all technologies — grounded in the principle of technology neutrality — is essential for an effective and cost-efficient decarbonisation strategy. The EU framework must also better safeguard Member States’ freedom to determine and decarbonize their energy mix.