Increasing the share of renewable energy to 20% in the EU energy consumption by 2020 relies on the commitment of Member States to fully implement the requirements of EU legislation.
The Renewable Energy Directive (2009/28/EC) [ 
1.28MB] had to be transposed by Member States by 5 December 2010. The timely transposition of this Directive is a priority for the Commission, especially since unnecessary delays in implementing it may jeopardize the achievement of the EU renewable energy objective. However, Cyprus, Ireland, Malta and Slovenia have not informed the Commission of all the measures necessary to fully transpose the Directive into their national legislation.
Therefore, the Commission has today decided to send Reasoned Opinions to these Member States. If the Member States do not comply with their legal obligation within two months, the Commission may decide to refer them to the Court of Justice.
Background
The EU has committed to reach a 20% share of renewable energy in final energy consumption and a 10% share of renewable energy in transport by 2020. The regulatory framework laid down by the Renewable Energy Directive is a key element for reaching these objectives.
According to the Directive, each Member State has to reach individual targets contributing to the overall 20% share of renewable energy in energy consumption. To reach these targets, Member States have to lay down rules, for example for improving the grid access for electricity from renewable energy sources, the administrative and planning procedures, information and training of installers etc. In addition, where biofuels are used to achieve the transport target, these must meet a set of sustainability requirements, which also need to be included in national legislation.
More Information
Commission web page on renewable energy
Current figures on infringements of EU law
View MEMO/12/464. EU law: Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented