In order for the European Union to reach its overall greenhouse gas emission targets, each of its member states must adopt the National Energy and Climate (ENCP) Plan, a ten-year integrated plan. All five elements of the EU Energy Union are covered under the Energy and Climate Plan, including decarbonization, energy efficiency, energy security, internal energy markets, and research, innovation, and competitiveness.
The stated objectives are to: 1) lower GHG emissions in non-emissions trading sectors; 2) enhance the amount of renewable energy in total energy use and in road transportation; and 3) encourage energy efficiency.
The plan describes how current legislative initiatives will affect the trajectory of greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy, and energy efficiency through 2040. On the energy system, greenhouse gas emissions and sinks, economic development, the environment, and public health are all discussed in relation to the intended policy initiatives.