Policy comments: EBRD’s Sustainable Energy Initiative 3
November 28, 2011
In recent years, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has paid increased attention to sustainable energy issues, enegry efficiency in particular. At the same time, the bank’s Sustainable Energy Initiative (SEI) criteria need to be strengthened in line with climate science and EU policy.
Recommendations by civil society organisations from Central Asia on the new Development Cooperation Instrument regulation
November 28, 2011
Civil society organizations from Central Asia submitted their recommendations on the EU’s new Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI). The organisations call for a structured, open and transparent decision-making process involving local civil society representatives throughout the DCI activities in order to ensure the sustainable and democratic development of their countries.
Sostanj power plant in Slovenia: Against EU laws and policies
November 21, 2011
The project is a plan to construct a sixth unit at the Sostanj lignite-fired power plant in Slovenia. It has received significant backing from European public banks adding up to more than 50% of the overall costs of the investment. Doubts about the economic viability of the project, alleged irregularities in the tendering procedure and its climate impact caused strong opposition to the project within Slovenia. A recent study conducted by an independent consultant as well as two complaints submitted to the European Commission by NGOs bring new arguments against TES 6.
EBRD support for Kolubara paving the “ash way” for development of Serbia
November 21, 2011
Linked to a slew of controversies, the Kolubara lignite mining project in Serbia is in line for support from European public banks. Corruption allegations, pollution at local level, irregularities in resettlement of local populations and not to forget a climate damaging approach to energy investments should be reason enough to find alternative options. An updated version of this briefing is available here (May 12, 2012).
Khudoni hydropower plant – a risky deal
November 21, 2011
The proposed Khudoni hydro power plant poses the risk of an ecological disaster in one of the most amazing highland regions of Georgia. Additionally, the economic justification of the project is doubtful because the contract with the completely unknown, offshore Virgin Islands registered Georgian-Indian Company Transelectrica Ltd, is based on the BOO (Build-Own-Operate) principle that does not promise any significant income for the Georgian budget.
Home is where the heat is: thermal insulation programs for buildings in the Czech Republic and its positive effect on job creation
November 18, 2011
The study shows how targeted public financial support for energy efficiency, mainly thermal insulation of buildings, helped create jobs and increase economic activity across the Czech Republic.
Official complaint to EBRD: Ombla hydropower project, Croatia
November 17, 2011
More information on the project is available here.
Letter to EBRD re complaints against Sostanj power plant project
November 16, 2011
The letter notifies the EBRD of two complaints filed against the Sostanj lignite thermal power plant unit 6 project and calls on the EBRD to also undertake a thorough review of its involvement in the project, as it seems that when approving the project, some relevant facts were omitted by the bank.
Enhancing transparency, the partnership principle and public participation in the future Cohesion Policy
November 15, 2011
The partnership principle, public participation and transparency are interlinked and basic democratic principles, essential to good governance and sustainable development. They are necessary for Cohesion Policy to ensure that needs and priorities of the people in Europe are effectively taken into account. We believe improvement is needed to implement these values in the EU funds cycle, specifically with regards to the implementation and development of the European Code of Conduct.
The reality behind EU “energy security” the case of Nigeria
November 9, 2011
The report examines the environmental and social devastation caused by European oil multinationals Eni, Total and Shell in Nigeria and suggests a major rethink of the European Union’s so-called ‘energy security strategy’. More materials Eni misled shareholders over gas flaring in Nigeria at the PLATFORM Blog
