Thomas Waitz, an Austrian MEP from the Greens group in the European Parliament, has submitted written questions to the European Commission regarding plans and debates related to the development of new fossil gas infrastructure in candidate countries for European Union membership, including Kosovo.
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In the document submitted several days ago, Waitz notes that Kosovo has already adopted its Energy Strategy and is finalizing its National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP). He also mentions the implementation of obligations arising from the Climate Law and the preparation of Kosovo’s voluntary climate contribution.
According to the MEP, despite these processes, political debate over the development of fossil gas infrastructure has intensified recently. This is happening even though Kosovo currently has no gas market, distribution network, storage capacity or clearly established demand base.
In one of the three questions submitted, Waitz asks the European Commission to assess proposals aimed at building new fossil gas infrastructure in candidate countries where no such system exists. He asks how these proposals align with the goals of the Green Agenda, the responsibilities arising from the Energy Community and the NECP preparation process.
Waitz also seeks clarification on whether potential energy investments by third countries and international partners should be aligned with the national energy strategies adopted by candidate countries, as well as with the situation on the ground. According to his question, this would ensure consistency with the energy transition supported by the European Union.
The third issue concerns how the European Commission intends to help enlargement countries foster fact-based public debate and strategic planning. The request comes as discussions about fossil gas are taking up an increasing share of political debate, even though long-term objectives include decarbonization, the expansion of renewable energy sources, improved energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
