My country is breaking EU law — Demand accountability now!
National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) across Europe are failing to meet climate goals. We're calling for legal action and the European Commission must step in to make sure governments follow through.
Our Mission
NECPs are the roadmaps for how countries will meet their climate goals by 2030.
But many Member States are breaching EU law by submitting weak plans that fall short of these targets.
Through legal action, we’re making sure they comply and protect all citizens from climate havoc.
Watch Our
Story Unfold
See how civil society is exposing the shortcomings of NECPs — from missed targets to insufficient public participation.
Who We Are
We’re a coalition of NGOs from across Europe, united to challenge the weak NECPs that violate EU law. From Ireland to Italy, we are using legal tools and public pressure to push governments toward real climate action.
Together, Notre Affaire à Tous (France), Germanwatch (Germany), Environmental Justice Network Ireland (EJNI), A Sud and WWF Italy (Italy), and SEAL and SSNC (Sweden), CAN Europe, we push governments toward compliance and a just transition.
Only 14 out of 27 countries submitted their #EUNECP to date. What we see is very worrying, BUT the story should not end here.
— CAN EUROPE (@CANEurope) November 6, 2024
TOMORROW, as @WBHoekstra faces the @Europarl_EN, NGOs from across Europe will unite to demand strong #climateplans.
It’s time to hold governments… pic.twitter.com/SSknBpYH31
Those #hearings continue and hot on the agenda today: ENERGY PRICES.#EUNECP, national energy and climate plans, are a chance to ensure affordable energy, cleaner air, and a fair energy transition.
— CAN EUROPE (@CANEurope) November 5, 2024
ISSUE: only 14 countries submitted their final climate plans to date, 4 months… pic.twitter.com/DfJpGiszw8
Busy week in Brussels with THOSE hearings and #EUNECP on the radar.
— CAN EUROPE (@CANEurope) November 4, 2024
Weak climate and energy plans hurt us all.
The European Commission must enforce #EUNECP to ensure accountability.#FairerClimatePlans pic.twitter.com/V83m3XOr7G
7 November:
A day for change
On 7 November 2024, civil society unites in action across Europe. National complaints are being submitted to the European Commission to hold countries accountable for their weak NECPs that breach EU law. Join us and make your voice heard!
What Are NECPs?
National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) are key tools used by every EU country to outline how they will meet climate and energy targets by 2030. These plans lay out the actions Member States will take to reduce emissions, promote renewable energy, and improve energy efficiency—all essential steps to achieving the EU’s climate goals and keeping the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement within reach.
More Than Just
Technical Documents
NECPs are not just policy papers; they directly influence how we live and work, shaping the way we transition to a low-carbon future. The current revision of NECPs offers a unique opportunity to embed just transition principles—ensuring that the energy transition is fair and inclusive.
A Just Transition:
No One Left Behind
A just transition ensures that the benefits of decarbonisation are shared widely, while protecting those who could be most impacted by the shift—such as workers in carbon-heavy industries, marginalized communities, and small businesses. Strong NECPs can unlock new green jobs, make energy more affordable, and improve the quality of life for everyone. It’s crucial that no one is left behind in this transition.
Why Now?
NECPs have been revised by EU countries in 2023-2024. This revision process is a critical moment for raising ambition. These NECPs will shape how Europe tackles the twin crises of climate change and energy insecurity while advancing social justice. If we get it right, NECPs can drive Europe’s transition to a fairer, cleaner, and more resilient society—one that benefits all citizens.
Now is the time to push for ambitious, people-centered NECPs that deliver on both climate action and social equity.
Timeline
7 November 2024 – Day of Action
Civil society mobilises to hold governments accountable for submitting inadequate NECPs during the June 2024 revision process.
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What are NECPs?
NECPs (National Energy and Climate Plans) outline how each EU country will meet its climate and energy goals by 2030.
What is an infringement proceeding?
It’s a legal process the European Commission uses to hold countries accountable when they break EU law.
Has climate litigation worked before?
Yes! Climate lawsuits have forced governments and companies to take stronger action on reducing emissions and protecting the environment.
How can I get involved?
Join our movement by supporting our actions, spreading the word, or contributing to our campaigns!
Who’s behind this project?
A coalition of NGOs, including Notre Affaire à Tous (France), Germanwatch (Germany), Environmental Justice Network Ireland (EJNI), A Sud and WWF Italy (Italy), and Sweden’s Environmental Association of Law (SEAL) and Swedish Society for Nature Conservation (Sweden), coordinated by CAN Europe.
What’s next?
The European Commission has up to 12 months to assess our complaints and decide whether to start a formal infringement procedure. We’re pushing for swift action to hold governments accountable—stay tuned!
What can I do?
Take action by sharing our campaign, joining events, or calling on your government to comply with EU law.
National energy and climate plans
We’re a coalition of NGOs from across Europe, united to challenge the weak NECPs that violate EU law. From Ireland to Italy, we are using legal tools and public pressure to push governments toward real climate action.