Solar energy takes centre stage in Europe"s renewed push for energy independence

EU Energy Ministers reached a broad agreement on the REPowerEU Roadmap, setting the course for a full phase-out of Russian gas imports by 2028.

The Ministers also voiced strong support for the European Commission"s upcoming Electrification Action Plan, recognising electrification as the cornerstone of Europe"s future energy independence.

The discussions came ahead of the European Commission"s presentation its 2026 Work Programme, which confirmed the calendar of key upcoming initiatives: a review of our energy security framework, an electrification action plan, the phase out of fossil fuel subsidies as well as a proposal for an Energy Union package for the next decade. Dries Acke, Deputy CEO of SolarPower Europe (he/him): SThis is a breakthrough moment for Europe"s energy transition.

We applaud the Energy Council"s decisive step to completely phase out Russian gas imports and accelerate the transition towards homegrown renewables.

This is not only vital for Europe"s energy security and independence but also a powerful move to stop financing Russia"s war machine.

The REPowerEU Roadmap and the upcoming Electrification Action Plan together mark an important step for Europe"s energy security.

We all know structural resilience will not come from diversifying fossil fuels supply, but from replacing them with a flexible, renewables-based and electrified energy system.

Solar is ready, yet again, to deliver for Europe.

The forthcoming Commission"s work program on energy confirms this direction of travel.

The European Commission is right to prioritise national implementation of the good EU permitting and electricity market rules, and not to confuse investors with unnecessary revisions of agreed legislation.

With this week"s milestones, the EU is taking another step closer to achieving true energy security.

During the Energy Council on 20 October 2025, EU Member States agreed to a complete phase-out of Russian gas imports by 2028.

They also expressed strong support for the upcoming Electrification Action Plan from the European Commission, which will guide policy measures to accelerate electrification of transport, industry and buildings while driving investments in clean energy and flexibility.

The European Commission"s 2026 Work Programme, presented to the European Parliament, outlines a renewed focus on energy security, electrification, and affordable energy.

Since Russia"s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, SolarPower Europe has actively worked to accelerate solar deployment in Ukraine, through the Solar Support Ukraine initiative and a strategic collaboration with Greenpeace, enhancing energy security in the country.