France was criticised last week for holding up EU climate legislation, by nitpicking over nuclear. The nation has come under fire for its insistence on amendments to the Renewable Energy Directive, a crucial document aiming to reduce EU greenhouse gas emissions by 55% before 2030 and increase the bloc’s renewable share by 42.5%.
Dubbed by an anonymous diplomat speaking to Politico as taking the legislation “hostage”, France’s late-stage call for concessions has raised eyebrows across the continent. The most controversial of these calls is the exemption of ammonia production from green hydrogen targets, a move seen by many as a smokescreen for France’s nuclear interests.
France’s position in this contentious debate is informed by its considerable investment in nuclear energy. Producing over 70% of its electricity from nuclear power, France is one of the world’s leading advocates for the role of nuclear power in a low-carbon future. As such, it seeks recognition of nuclear power as a sustainable, green energy source under EU law.
However, this position has stirred controversy due to the environmental impact associated with nuclear energy, particularly in waste management and potential accident scenarios. Therefore, France’s stance has complicated negotiations around the EU’s ‘taxonomy for sustainable activities’, a framework set to significantly shape the future of European energy policy.
Simultaneously, parallels have been drawn with Germany, another heavyweight in European climate policy. Germany recently obstructed legislation proposing a ban on selling new CO2-emitting cars after 2035, most likely to protect its colossal automotive industry, valued at 506 billion euros in 2022. This move underscores how national interests can complicate collective action towards ambitious climate goals within the EU.
The unfolding events around France and Germany highlight the complexities inherent in forging consensus on EU climate legislation. The stakes are high; these legislations bear the potential to significantly impact not only Europe but also the broader global fight against climate change.
France and Germany, among the wealthiest countries in Europe, occupy influential positions in this decision-making process. Given their economic standing, there is an expectation that they should be at the forefront of progress.
This complex negotiation period brings to light the multifaceted considerations that must be tackled in the pursuit of a sustainable future. Fostering dialogue and finding common ground is hugely important when dealing with such a critical issue as the climate crisis. As these discussions continue, the role of nuclear energy in Europe’s green transition—and how countries like France navigate these intricate policy waters—will undoubtedly remain a critical area to watch.
