In their final updated 2025 National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs), EU member states set out their intended contributions to achieving the EU's climate goals. At the same time, these plans provide an opportunity to integrate social aspects into the transformation towards a climate-neutral economy with net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. By aligning climate, energy, and social policies more effectively, the EU Member States can pave the way for a fair and just transition that benefits all citizens and leaves no one behind.
Overall, the NECPs reveal significant differences in the way member states address the social dimensions of the transition – posing a risk of growing social inequalities in the EU and highlighting shortcomings in preparing for the transition to the EU Emissions trading system for buildings and road transport (ETS 2). Germany's performance is below average compared to other European countries: the German NECP falls short of EU requirements in key areas, such as assessing socioeconomic impacts, combating energy poverty and preparing for ETS 2. Thus, Germany is missing the opportunity to organise the transition in a fair and coherent manner.
In a joint briefing, Germanwatch and our EU umbrella organisation CAN Europe analyse the extent to which the final NECPs of ten member states meet the EU's requirements for a just transition. Countries such as Slovenia, Spain and Portugal at least partially address these requirements, offering valuable lessons for Germany.
