Study on the role of local authorities in energy governance

The European Committee of the Regions recently published the study prepared by Milieu on the role of local and regional authorities (LRAs) in the draft National Climate and Energy Plans (NECPs). The Regulation on the governance of the energy union and climate action (Regulation 2018/1999) requires Member States to submit NECPs that cover the five dimensions of the energy union and set goals for the 2021-2030 period in support of the EU climate and energy priorities. In June 2019, the Commission provided feedback to Member States on their draft NECPs. Considering the important role of LRAs in addressing climate change in their communities, this study examines the areas of the draft NECPs that are relevant to LRAs, the involvement of LRAs in the NECP process and the potential role for the European Committee of the Regions in this process. It concludes with recommendations and best practices for engaging LRAs in climate and energy policy and the NECPs in particular.