WHAT IS IT

The environmental acquis strengthens the Energy Community Treaty by providing the legal framework to ensure that the development and operation of energy systems are not only efficient, equitable, and secure, but also sustainable. As Contracting Parties move forward on their energy transition pathways, it is essential that this transformation is guided by environmental responsibility—recognising that no infrastructure development comes without environmental impact.
 

WHY IT MATTERS

Contracting Parties face a broad range of environmental challenges related to energy infrastructure — from ensuring proper planning and environmental safeguards for new generation facilities to managing emissions from daily operations. Air pollution is a serious concern across the region, contributing to thousands of premature deaths each year. Comprehensive environmental assessments are crucial for the responsible planning of energy projects. They support better design and operation while also building public trust and acceptance.
 

EXPERT GROUP: Environmental Task Force

In 2010, the Secretariat proposed to the Ministerial Council to establish a Task Force on Environment to deal with the increasing complexity of the Energy Community Treaty’s environmental dimension. At its meeting on 24 September 2010, the Ministerial Council approved that proposal and authorized the Permanent High Level Group to adopt a concrete mandate of the Task Force and to elect its Chair. This was carried out at the PHLG meeting held on 23 March 2011.

As of 1 January 2024, the work of the Task Force is split into two work streams, addressing issues related to:

• Permitting and planning (Subgroup A) and
• Emissions and air quality (Subgroup B).