On 13 March, the Council agreed on its position regarding the proposal to simplify certain rules relating to artificial intelligence (AI). The proposal forms part of the so-called‘Omnibus VII’legislative packageunder theEU’ssimplificationagenda. This package includes proposals for two regulations aimed at simplifying the EU’s digital legislative framework and the application of harmonised rules on artificial intelligence. […]
Commission presents measures to increase EU energy independence and affordability
The European Commission presented the first initiatives to boost investment in local clean energy solutions, increase resilience and reduce energy prices. The current geopolitical context reminds us once again of the risks associated with Europe’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. Citizens and industries are rightly concerned about high energy prices. Clean energy sources remain the […]
The Commission proposes an Industrial Acceleration Act to strengthen industry and create jobs in Europe
The European Commission has adopted last March 4th a legislative proposal to increase demand for European low-carbon technologies and products. TheIndustrial Acceleration Act(IAA)will boost manufacturing, drive business growth and create jobs in the EU, while supporting industry’s adoption of cleaner, future-proof technologies. In line with the recommendations ofthe Draghi report, the Industrial Acceleration Act (IAA) […]
Commission invests €225 million to deliver next-generation influenza vaccines
The European Union is committing €225 million to speed up the development of next-generation flu vaccines that will offer protection across a wider range of influenza variants and quickly adapted if a pandemic strain emerges. It marks the first time the Commission will be using pre-commercial procurement to advance products through clinical trials, ensuring they […]
Commission presents action plan to counter drone threats
The European Commission presented last February 11 its Action Plan to counter the increasing threats posed by drones to EU security. In recent years, the EU has faced growing and multi-faceted challenges relating to drones and meteorological balloons, including hostile overflights, airspace violations, disruptions to airports, as well as risks to our critical infrastructure, external […]
The EU invests €700 million in the newly inaugurated NanoIC, Europe’s largest chip pilot line.
The European Union has launched its largest pilot lineunder the Chips Act, NanoIC, at IMEC Leuven, a key milestone for semiconductor development and manufacturing in Europe. With a total investment of €2.5 billion, the facility has received €700 million in funding from the EU, €700 million from national and regional governments, and the remainder from […]
Commission approves €3 billion German State aid scheme to support cleantech manufacturing capacity
The European Commission has approved a €3 billion German State aid scheme to support strategic investments that add clean technology (cleantech) manufacturing capacity in line with the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal. This measure will contribute to the transition towards a net-zero economy. The scheme was approved under the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework (CISAF) adopted by […]
EU sets world’s first voluntary standard for permanent carbon removals
Last February 3, the Commission adopted the first set of methodologies under the carbon removals and carbon farming (CRCF) Regulation to certify activities that permanently remove CO2 from the atmosphere. By adopting these first voluntary certification methodologies, the EU is setting clear rules and creating new opportunities for climate innovation, investments in carbon removal technologies and addressing greenwashing. This milestone positions […]
Improving Europe’s responsiveness: preparing the European Critical Communication System
From terrorist attacks, border incidents and large-scale accidents to floods and fires: responding to cross-border emergencies requires agile and fluid teamwork and reliable communication. The European Union Critical Communications System (EUCCS) is a key initiative for achieving a safer and better-connected Europe in emergency situations. It will integrate the communication systems used by emergency services […]