Ursula von der Leyen’s new commissioner picks, including Wopke Hoekstra, Dan Jørgensen, and Teresa Ribera, are seen as a positive sign by climate activists and the renewable energy lobby. These appointments signal continuity with the Green Deal and commitment to climate action. The trio has been dubbed a “dream team” by some, with hopes that they will lead the way towards a fossil-free energy system and a clean industrial transition.
While some have welcomed the new portfolios and the inclusion of taxation and housing in the energy briefs, others remain skeptical about the von der Leyen Commission’s intentions. Greenpeace EU’s director, Jorgo Riss, warned against compromising social and environmental standards in the pursuit of competitiveness.
With Hoekstra set to attend the COP29 climate summit in November and a proposed 2040 emissions reduction target on the horizon, the climate community will be closely watching the actions of the new EU executive. Despite this cautious optimism, there are concerns about potential lobbying pressures and the need for clarity on how these new portfolios will work in practice.
Overall, the appointments have been met with a mix of hope and skepticism, with many urging von der Leyen and her team to prioritize climate action and sustainable policies in their new mandate.
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