16 June 2015: A progress report published by the European Commission finds that the EU is on track to meet its 2020 target of achieving a 20% share of renewable energy in the overall energy supply. According to the report, 25 EU countries are anticipated to meet their 2013/2014 interim renewable energy targets and the share of renewable energy in 2014 gross final energy consumption is projected at 15.3%.

Three countries are behind in meeting their targets and, as the interim targets become more ambitious, more countries will have to intensify efforts to stay on track, according to the report. In addition, the report finds that meeting the EU’s target for 10% renewable energy in transport will be challenging, though possible, as the 2014 projected share stands at 5.7%.

The European Commission attributes 326 megatons (Mt) of avoided carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in 2012 and 388 Mt in 2013 to the 2020 renewables target. In addition, the report finds the targets have led to: the mainstreaming and widespread acceptability of renewable energy as a power source in Europe; European investments in renewable energy globally; and the adoption of similar targets by countries in other regions. [European Commission – Energy – Press Release] [European Commission Press Release] [EU Renewable Energy Progress Reports]