EU Launches Infringement Proceedings Against Sweden and 25 Other States for Renewable Energy Directive Non-Compliance

The European Commission has initiated infringement proceedings against 26 EU member states, including Sweden, for failing to implement the Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) regarding green hydrogen targets ahead of a critical deadline.

The RED III requires that by 2030, a minimum of 42% of industrial hydrogen must be produced from renewable sources. Additionally, it mandates that at least 1% of hydrogen in transport fuels be green. Currently, Denmark stands as the only member state to have fully complied with the directive on time. The Commission's move signals serious concern, as these member states now have a two-month period to respond to formal letters and take necessary actions to incorporate the directive into their national laws.

Failure to comply with this directive could escalate to a reasoned opinion from the Commission, formally requesting compliance, and may ultimately lead to actions taken before the European Court of Justice. As laid out in the directive, non-compliance can result in significant financial penalties for the respective countries involved.

The compliance deadline for fully implementing RED III was set for May 21, 2025. This news marks a critical point in EU relations concerning environmental and energy policies, amid increasing pressure on member states to bolster their commitments to renewable energy sources.