The report (download here) by Mr Davies includes recommendations for funding, regulatory measures and the promotion of CCS in the industrial sector. It was passed by a large majority and could signify a return of CCS to the forefront of EU climate policy.
Bellona provdes a full summary here.
Dr. Graeme Sweeney, Chairman of the Zero Emissions Platform (ZEP), commented:
“We welcome the result of today’s vote, which is a clear step in the right direction for Carbon Capture and Storage in Europe. We commend the ambitious efforts of MEP Davies and all the supportive MEPs for the success of today’s vote. MEP Davies has identified the necessary elements for creating the right environment for CCS roll-out. Calling on the European Commission to conduct an analysis on the possibility of a certificates system for long-term funding of CCS development is a welcome step towards identifying appropriate financing mechanisms. CCS certificates, if carefully designed for a defined volume, are one of the instruments to consider, certainly in the short term.
“Including CCS in the 2030 Climate and Energy Framework solidifies Europe’s targets for reducing emissions. We hope for a similarly positive outcome to the European Parliament plenary vote on this report in February. Overall, today’s vote sends an important signal to policy makers and we hope that the Council and European Commission provide their valuable support for future CCS policy initiatives.
“What we need now is to build on this momentum by achieving the necessary policy and funding mechanisms, as well as strengthening Member State commitment. With these in place Europe can take advantage of the valuable benefits CCS can provide—achieving its carbon emissions reduction targets while maintaining key industries and creating jobs.”