Published: Fri, 14 March 2025
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Sean Kelly, MEP for Ireland South and Leader of the Fine Gael Delegation in the European Parliament, has welcomed the European Commission’s publication of the Affordable Energy Action Plan, highlighting its importance for energy independence, competitiveness, and lower costs for businesses and households.
“Affordable energy isn’t just about lower bills—it’s about ensuring European businesses can compete and that we are no longer at the mercy of volatile global energy markets,” Kelly stated. “For too long, external geopolitical shocks—completely beyond our control—have driven energy prices through the roof, putting pressure on households and fuelling inflation. This Action Plan is a step towards breaking that cycle.”
Kelly emphasised the need to accelerate the transition to indigenous renewable energy sources. “The only way to truly secure affordable energy is to generate more of it ourselves. That means investing in the infrastructure to harness our vast renewable potential. Without a modernised grid, we simply won’t be able to deliver on our ambitions. We also need to speed up planning processes to ensure renewable projects get off the ground faster.”
Kelly pointed to the importance of energy storage and market flexibility in integrating renewables. “It’s not just about producing more green energy; it’s about making sure we can use it effectively. That’s why incentives for energy storage, flexible demand, and better market design are key. The Action Plan’s follow-up on Electricity Market Design reforms is crucial—de-risking Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) will allow businesses to secure stable, long-term energy costs and reduce exposure to gas price volatility.”
He also warned about the risks of continued reliance on imported fossil fuels. “Every year, billions of euro leave the European economy to pay for energy we could be producing ourselves. That is not sustainable—economically or strategically. The drive towards energy independence isn’t just a climate necessity; it’s a competitiveness imperative. A competitive Europe is an energy-independent Europe.”
Kelly reiterated the urgency of action. “The decisions we make now will determine Europe’s energy future for decades. This is about building an energy system that is affordable, reliable, and resilient. The Affordable Energy Action Plan is a significant step in the right direction, and we must move quickly to implement it.”
