### lack of access to finance for microenterprises , social economy and social enterprises is one of the main obstacles to business creation , especially among people furthest from the labour market . the esf + regulation lays down provisions in order to create a market eco - system to increase the supply of and access to finance for social enterprises as well as to meet demand from those who need it most , and in particular the unemployed , women and vulnerable people who wish to start up or develop a microenterprise . this objective will also be addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the social investment and skills policy window of the investeu fund . ### lack of access to finance for microenterprises , social economy and social enterprises is one of the main obstacles to business creation , especially among people furthest from the labour market . the esf + regulation lays down provisions in order to create a market eco - system to increase the supply of and access to finance for social enterprises as well as to meet demand from those who need it most , and in particular the unemployed , women , persons with disabilities and people facing certain geographical barriers , especially those living in rural areas , who wish to start up or develop a microenterprise or a social enterprise . this objective will also be addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the social investment and skills policy window of the investeu fund .


### the esf + shall support , complement and add value to the policies of the member states to ensure equal opportunities , access to the labour market , fair working conditions , social protection and inclusion , and a high level of human health protection . ### the esf + shall support , complement and add value to the policies of the member states to ensure equal opportunities , access to the labour market , decent and rewarding working conditions , the fight against poverty , social protection and inclusion and a high level of human health protection .


### improving access to employment of all jobseekers , in particular youth and long - term unemployed , and of inactive people , promoting self - employment and the social economy ; ### improving access to employment of all jobseekers , in particular youth and long - term unemployed , and of inactive people , people living in rural areas , promoting the creation of economically viable companies , particularly although not exclusively in the field of the social economy , and the acquisition of companies , in particular those in rural areas ;


### promoting equal access to and completion of , quality and inclusive education and training , in particular for disadvantaged groups , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training , and to tertiary level , as well as adult education and learning , including facilitating learning mobility for all ; ### promoting equal access to and completion of , quality education and training that are accessible to all , in particular for people facing specific obstacles , in particular persons with disabilities , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training , and to tertiary level , as well as adult education and learning , including facilitating learning mobility for all ;


### promoting social integration of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion , including the most deprived and children ; ### promoting social integration of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion , namely the most materially and financially deprived people and children in particular ;


### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure equality between men and women throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . ### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure equality between men and women throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , particularly persons with disabilities &#8211 ; which entails the implementation of accessibility measures &#8211 ; without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation .


### member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall foster synergies and ensure coordination , complementarity and coherence between the esf + and other union funds , programmes and instruments such as erasmus , the asylum and migration fund and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument , both in the planning phase and during implementation . member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall optimise mechanisms for coordination to avoid duplication of effort and ensure close cooperation between those responsible for implementation to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions . ### member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall foster synergies and ensure coordination , complementarity and coherence between the esf + and other union funds , programmes and instruments such as erasmus , the asylum and migration fund and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument , both in the planning phase and during implementation . member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall optimise mechanisms for coordination to avoid duplication of effort and ensure close cooperation between those responsible for implementation to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions . however , such synergies must not contribute to diverting an eu fund or programme from its initial objectives : in particular , the purpose of the erasmus + programme must , as a priority , be the academic mobility of nationals of the member states of the eu or the countries participating in the programme .


### member states shall allocate at least 25% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objectives for the social inclusion policy area set out in points to of article 4 , including the promotion of the socio - economic integration of third country nationals . ### member states shall allocate , according to their specific needs , a proportion corresponding to 25% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objectives for the policy area of social inclusion and combating poverty set out in points to of article 4 .


### member states shall allocate at least 2% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objective of addressing material deprivation set out in point of article 4 . ### member states shall allocate , according to their specific needs , at least 2% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objective of addressing material deprivation set out in point of article 4 in addition to activities already carried out pursuant to article 7 of this regulation .


### member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2019 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 10% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2021 to 2025 to targeted actions and structural reforms to support youth employment and school - to - work transition , pathways to reintegrate into education or training and second chance education , in particular in the context of implementing youth guarantee schemes . ### member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2019 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 10% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2021 to 2025 to targeted actions and structural reforms to support youth employment and school - to - work transition , pathways to reintegrate into education or training and second chance education , in particular in the context of implementing youth guarantee schemes . this percentage serves as a guideline and shall be adapted in line with the specific needs and economic situation of the member state concerned .


### member states shall support actions of social innovation and social experimentations , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the private sector , and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies . ### member states shall support actions of social innovation and social experimentations , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the private sector , and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies according to the specific needs identified for the region or territory concerned .


### support from the emff should aim to achieve and maintain sustainable fishing based on the maximum sustainable yield and to minimise the negative impacts of fishing activities on the marine ecosystem . that support should include innovation and investments in low - impact , climate resilient and low - carbon fishing practices and techniques . ### support from the emff should aim to achieve and maintain sustainable fishing based on the maximum sustainable yield and to minimise the negative impacts of fishing activities on the marine ecosystem . that support should include innovation and investments in low - impact , climate resilient and low - carbon fishing practices and techniques . support may therefore in no event be given to fishing activities that use electrical pulse .


### small - scale coastal fishing is carried out by fishing vessels below 12 metres and not using towed fishing gears . that sector represents nearly 75% of all fishing vessels registered in the union and nearly half of all employment in the fishery sector . operators from small - scale coastal fisheries are particularly dependant on healthy fish stocks for their main source of income . the emff should therefore give them a preferential treatment through a 100% aid intensity rate , including for operations related to control and enforcement , with the aim of encouraging sustainable fishing practices . in addition , certain areas of support should be reserved for small - scale fishing in fleet segment where the fishing capacity is balanced with the available fishing opportunities , i . e . support for the acquisition of a second - hand vessel and for engine replacement or modernisation . furthermore , member states should include in their programme an action plan for small - scale coastal fishing , which should be monitored on the basis of indicators for which milestones and targets should be set . ### small - scale coastal fishing is defined by the member states as part of their programme . that sector represents the majority of all fishing vessels registered in the union and of all employment in the sector . operators from small - scale coastal fisheries are particularly dependant on healthy fish stocks for their main source of income . the emff should therefore give them a preferential treatment through a 100% aid intensity rate , including for operations related to control and enforcement , with the aim of encouraging sustainable fishing practices . in addition , certain areas of support should be reserved for small - scale fishing in fleet segment where the fishing capacity is balanced with the available fishing opportunities , i . e . support for the acquisition of a vessel and for modernisation . furthermore , member states should include in their programme an action plan for small - scale coastal fishing , which should be monitored on the basis of indicators for which milestones and targets should be set .


### priority 2 : contributing to food security in the union through competitive and sustainable aquaculture and markets ### priority 2 : contributing to food security in the union through competitive and sustainable fisheries , aquaculture and markets


### this regulation respects the fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . this regulation should be interpreted and applied in accordance with those rights and principles . ### this regulation respects the fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in the common constitutional traditions of the member states of the european union . this regulation should be interpreted and applied in accordance with those rights and principles .


### ‘ accessible format copy’ means a copy of a work or other subject - matter in an alternative manner or form that gives a beneficiary person access to the work or other subject - matter , including allowing for the person to have access as feasibly and comfortably as a person without a visual impairment or any of the disabilities referred to in paragraph 2 ; ### ‘ accessible format copy’ means a copy of a work or other subject - matter , presented on a non - profit basis in an alternative manner or form that gives a beneficiary person access to the work or other subject - matter , including allowing for the person to have access as feasibly and comfortably as a person without a visual impairment or any of the disabilities referred to in paragraph 2 ;


### in accordance with article 17 of regulation no 1380 / 2013 , when allocating the fishing opportunities available to them , member states shall use transparent and objective criteria , including those of an environmental , social and economic nature , and shall also endeavour to distribute national quotas fairly among the various fleet segments giving consideration to traditional and artisanal fishing , and to provide incentives to union fishing vessels deploying selective fishing gear or using fishing techniques with reduced environmental impact . ### in accordance with article 17 of regulation no 1380 / 2013 , when allocating the fishing opportunities available to them , member states shall use transparent and objective criteria , including those of an environmental , social and economic nature , and shall also endeavour to distribute national quotas fairly among the various fleet segments ensuring in particular that quotas are allocated to traditional and artisanal fishing , and to provide incentives to union fishing vessels deploying selective fishing gear or using fishing techniques with reduced environmental impact .


### despite considerable progress made in protecting consumers in the union , further improvements in protecting the rights of rail passengers are still to be made . ### despite progress made in protecting consumers in the union , further improvements in protecting the rights of rail passengers are still to be made , and the fight against anti - social behaviour , theft , violence and attacks perpetrated on the railways must be stepped up .


### in the context of the sale of tickets for the transport of passengers , member states should take all necessary measures to prohibit discrimination on the basis of nationality or residence , regardless whether the passenger concerned is present , permanently or on a temporary basis , in another member state . those measures should cover all covert forms of discrimination which , by the application of other criteria , such as residence , physical or digital location , may have the same effect . in light of the development of online platforms selling passenger transport tickets , member states should pay special attention to ensuring that no discrimination occurs during the process of accessing online interfaces or purchasing tickets . however , transport schemes involving social tariffs should not be automatically precluded , provided that they are proportionate and independent of the nationality of the persons concerned . ### in the context of the sale of tickets for the transport of passengers , member states should take all necessary measures to prohibit discrimination on the basis of nationality or residence , regardless of whether the passenger concerned is present , permanently or on a temporary basis , in another member state , unless the passenger concerned is in an irregular situation or is banned from travelling freely on the grounds of the need to protect public order . those measures should cover all covert forms of discrimination which , by the application of other criteria , such as residence , physical or digital location , may have the same effect . in light of the development of online platforms selling passenger transport tickets , member states should pay special attention to ensuring that no discrimination occurs during the process of accessing online interfaces or purchasing tickets . however , transport schemes involving social tariffs should not be automatically precluded , provided that they are proportionate and do not apply to illegal foreigners in line with the national legislation in force .


### non - discrimination between passengers with regard to transport conditions ; ### non - discrimination between passengers with regard to transport conditions as long as those passengers abide by the laws in force and / or do not pose a threat to public order ;


### non - discrimination against , and mandatory assistance for , persons with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility ; ### non - discrimination against , and mandatory assistance for , persons with disabilities , persons with reduced mobility , and persons manifestly in need of assistance ;


### without prejudice to social tariffs , railway undertakings or ticket vendors shall offer contract conditions and tariffs to the general public without direct or indirect discrimination on the basis of the final customer’s nationality or residence , or the place of establishment of the railway undertaking or ticket vendor within the union . ### without prejudice to social tariffs , which may be based on nationality , railway undertakings or ticket vendors shall offer contract conditions and tariffs to the general public without direct or indirect discrimination on the basis of the final customer’s nationality or residence , or the place of establishment of the railway undertaking or ticket vendor within the union .


### on departure from , transit through or arrival at , a staffed railway station of a person&#160 ; with disabilities&#160 ; or a person with reduced mobility , the station manager&#160 ; or the railway undertaking or both shall provide assistance free of charge in such a way that that person is able to board the departing service , or to disembark from the arriving service for which he or she purchased a ticket , without prejudice to the access rules referred to in article 20 . ### on departure from , transit through or arrival at , a staffed railway station of a person&#160 ; with disabilities , a person with reduced mobility or a person with a small child and a pram , the station manager&#160 ; or the railway undertaking or both shall provide assistance free of charge in such a way that that person is able to board the departing service , or to disembark from the arriving service for which he or she purchased a ticket , without prejudice to the access rules referred to in article 20 .


### in unstaffed stations , railway undertakings and station managers shall ensure that easily available information , including in accessible formats in accordance with the accessibility requirements laid down in directive xxx , is displayed in accordance with the access rules referred to in article 20 regarding the nearest staffed stations and directly available assistance for persons with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility . ### in unstaffed stations , railway undertakings and station managers shall ensure that easily available information , including in accessible formats in accordance with the accessibility requirements laid down in directive xxx , is displayed in accordance with the access rules referred to in article 20 regarding the nearest staffed stations and directly available assistance for persons with disabilities , persons with reduced mobility and persons with a small child and a pram .


### in the absence of accompanying staff on board a train , railway undertakings shall make reasonable efforts to enable persons with disabilities or persons with reduced mobility to have access to travel by rail . ### in the absence of staff at a station , railway undertakings and station managers shall make all reasonable efforts to enable disabled persons , persons with reduced mobility and persons with a small child and a pram to have access to travel by rail .


### for the purposes of this article , assistance on board shall consist of all reasonable efforts to offer assistance to a person with disabilities or a person with reduced mobility in order to allow that person to have access to the same services in the train as other passengers , should the extent of the person’s disability or reduced mobility not allow him or her to have access to those services independently and in safety . ### for the purposes of this article , assistance on board shall consist of all reasonable efforts to offer assistance to a person with disabilities , a person with reduced mobility or a person with a small child and a pram in order to allow that person to have access to the same services in the train as other passengers .


### railway undertakings , station managers , ticket vendors and tour operators shall cooperate in order to provide assistance to persons with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility in line with articles 20 and 21 in accordance with the following points : ### railway undertakings , station managers , ticket vendors and tour operators shall cooperate in order to provide assistance to persons with disabilities , persons with reduced mobility and persons with a small child and a pram in line with articles 20 and 21 in accordance with the following points :


### having evaluated the effectiveness and efficiency of the current union social legislation in road transport , certain loopholes in the existing provisions and deficiencies in their enforcement were identified . furthermore a number of discrepancies exist between member states in interpretation , application and implementation of the rules . this creates legal uncertainty and unequal treatment of drivers and operators , which is detrimental to the working , social and competition conditions in the sector . ### having evaluated the current union social legislation in road transport , certain loopholes in the existing provisions and deficiencies in their enforcement were identified . furthermore a number of discrepancies exist between member states in interpretation , application and implementation of the rules . this creates legal uncertainty and unequal treatment of drivers and operators , which is detrimental to the working , social and competition conditions in the sector .


### the anticipated duration , envisaged beginning and end date of the posting ; ### the anticipated duration , envisaged beginning and end date of the posting for each country crossed ;


### the commission shall evaluate the implementation of this directive , in particular the impact of article 2 , by [ 3 years after the date for transposition of this directive ] and report to the european parliament and the council on the application of this directive . the report by the commission shall , if appropriate , be accompanied by a legislative proposal . ### the commission shall evaluate the implementation of this directive , in particular the impact of article 2 on the job of , and the wages received by , drivers in the member states , by [ 3 years after the date for transposition of this directive ] and report to the european parliament and the council on the application of this directive . the report by the commission shall , if appropriate , be accompanied by a legislative proposal .


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union’s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this specific programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this specific programme are expected to contribute 35% of the overall financial envelope of the specific programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the specific programme’s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . ### reflecting the overriding and urgent importance of tackling climate change in line with the union’s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this specific programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this specific programme are expected to contribute 35% of the overall financial envelope of the specific programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the specific programme’s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes .


### fostering open science and ensuring visibility to the public and open access to results ; ### fostering science and ensuring visibility to the public ;


### supporting the implementation of union policy priorities ; ### supporting the implementation of member states’ policy priorities ;


### the strategic planning will help to develop and realise the implementation of policy for the relevant areas covered , at eu level as well as complementing policy and policy approaches in the member states . eu policy priorities will be taken into consideration during the strategic planning process to increase the contribution of research and innovation to the realisation of policy . it will also take into account foresight activities , studies and other scientific evidence and take account of relevant existing initiatives at eu and national level . ### the strategic planning will help to develop and realise the implementation of policy for the relevant areas covered , complementing policy and policy approaches in the member states . member states’ policy priorities will be taken into consideration during the strategic planning process to increase the contribution of research and innovation to the realisation of policy . it will also take into account foresight activities , studies and other scientific evidence and take account of relevant existing initiatives at both european and national level .


### the commission will systematically identify and record the results of the research and innovation activities under the programme and transfer or disseminate these results and knowledge produced in a non - discriminatory fashion to industry and enterprises of all sizes , public administrations , academia , civil society organisations and policy - makers , in order to maximise the european added value of the programme . ### the council will systematically identify and record the results of the research and innovation activities under the programme and transfer or disseminate these results and knowledge produced in a differentiated fashion - respecting the classifications established by the member state in which the research and innovation activity was carried out - to industry and enterprises of all sizes , public administrations , academia , civil society organisations and policy - makers , in order to maximise the european added value of the programme . member states may harmonise their classification of research results according to their strategic importance by means of an intergovernmental agreement .


### at the 21st conference of the parties to the united nations framework convention on climate change which took place in paris from 30 november to 12 december 2015 , an international agreement was adopted to strengthen the global response to climate change . the paris agreement , inter alia , sets out a long - term goal in line with the objective to keep the global temperature increase well below 2&#176 ; c above pre - industrial levels and to pursue efforts to keep it to 1 , 5&#176 ; c above pre - industrial levels . the paris agreement was approved on behalf of the union by council decision 2016 / 1841 . the paris agreement entered into force on 4th november 2016 . in order to achieve the goal of the paris agreement , parties will prepare , communicate and maintain successive nationally determined contributions . ### at the 21st conference of the parties to the united nations framework convention on climate change which took place in paris from 30 november to 12 december 2015 , an international agreement was adopted to strengthen the global response to climate change . the paris agreement , inter alia , sets out a long - term goal in line with the objective to keep the global temperature increase well below 2&#160 ; &#176 ; c above pre - industrial levels and to pursue efforts to keep it to 1 , 5&#160 ; &#176 ; c above pre - industrial levels . the paris agreement was approved on behalf of the union by council decision 2016 / 1841 . the paris agreement entered into force on 4th november 2016 . in order to achieve the goal of the paris agreement , parties will prepare , communicate and maintain successive nationally determined contributions . however , the withdrawal of the united states from the paris agreement should prompt the eu and its member states to examine the effectiveness of such agreements in terms of their impact on the climate and their real capacity to reduce ghg emissions . &#160 ;


### given that key features of the global market - based measure have yet to be developed and that its implementation depends on domestic legislation by states and regions , it is considered appropriate for a review to take place once there is clarity about the nature and content and of these legal instruments in advance of the start of icao ' s global market - based measure , and a report submitted to the european parliament and council . that report should consider any standards or other instruments adopted through icao , the actions taken by third countries to implement the global market - based measure to apply to emissions from 2021 and other relevant international developments . that report should consider how to implement these instruments in union law through a revision of the eu ets . it should also consider the rules applicable to intra - eea flights as appropriate . that report should be accompanied by a proposal as appropriate to the european parliament and the council consistent with ensuring the contribution of aviation to the union ' s 2030 economy - wide greenhouse gas reduction commitment . ### given that key features of the global market - based measure have yet to be developed and that its implementation depends on domestic legislation by states and regions , it is considered appropriate for a review to take place once there is clarity about the nature and content and of these legal instruments in advance of the start of icao ' s global market - based measure , and a report submitted to the european parliament and council . that report should consider any standards or other instruments adopted through icao , the actions taken by third countries to implement the global market - based measure to apply to emissions from 2021 and other relevant international developments . that report should consider how to implement these instruments in union law through a revision of the eu ets . it should also consider the rules applicable to intra - eea flights as appropriate . that report should be accompanied by a proposal as appropriate to the european parliament and the council consistent with ensuring the contribution of aviation to the union ' s 2030 economy - wide greenhouse gas reduction commitment . finally , it must assess the merits of the scheme established by icao and be careful to ensure that its implementation does not result in distortions of competition or fraud .


### a number of substantive changes are to be made to council directive 2011 / 95 / eu of 13 december 2011 on standards for the qualification of third - country nationals or stateless persons as beneficiaries of international protection , for a uniform status for refugees or for persons eligible for subsidiary protection , and for the content of the protection granted31 . to ensure harmonisation and more convergence in asylum decisions and as regards the content of international protection in order to reduce incentives to move within the european union and ensure an equality of treatment of beneficiaries of international protection that directive should be repealed and replaced by a regulation . _________________ 31 oj l 337 , 20 . 12 . 2011 , p . 9 . ### a number of substantive changes are to be made to council directive 2011 / 95 / eu of 13 december 2011 on standards for the qualification of third - country nationals or stateless persons as beneficiaries of international protection , for a uniform status for refugees or for persons eligible for subsidiary protection , and for the content of the protection granted31 . to ensure updates to and more convergence in asylum decisions and as regards the content of international protection in order to reduce incentives to move within the european union , ensure an equality of treatment of beneficiaries of international protection and avoid a rush of asylum applications , that directive should be repealed and replaced by a regulation . _________________ 31 oj l 337 , 20 . 12 . 2011 , p . 9 .


### the ceas is based on common standards for asylum procedures , recognition and protection offered at union level , reception conditions and a system for determining the member state responsible for asylum seekers . notwithstanding progress achieved so far in the progressive development of the ceas , there are still significant disparities between the member states in the types of procedures used , the recognition rates , the type of protection granted , the level of material reception conditions and benefits given to applicants for and beneficiaries of international protection . these divergences are important drivers of secondary movements and undermine the objective of ensuring that all applicants are equally treated wherever they apply in the union . ### the ceas is based on common standards for asylum procedures , recognition and protection offered at union level , reception conditions and a system for determining the member state responsible for asylum seekers . notwithstanding progress achieved so far in the progressive development of the ceas , there are still significant disparities between the member states in the types of procedures used , the recognition rates , the type of protection granted , the level of material reception conditions and benefits given to applicants for and beneficiaries of international protection . these divergences are important drivers of secondary movements and undermine the capacity of member states to manage , with full sovereignty , their legal immigration flows .


### for a well - functioning ceas , including of the dublin system , substantial progress should be made regarding the convergence of national asylum systems with special regard to differing recognition rates and type of protection status in the member states . in addition , rules on status review should be strengthened to ensure that protection is only granted to those who need it and for so long as it continues to be needed . moreover , divergent practices regarding the duration of the residence permits should be avoided , and the rights granted to beneficiaries of international protection should be further clarified and harmonised . ### rules on status review should be strengthened to ensure that protection is only granted to those who need it and for so long as it continues to be needed .


### in accordance with relevant case law of the court of justice of the european union , when assessing applications for international protection , the competent authorities of the member states should use methods for the assessment of the applicant ' s credibility in a manner that respects the individual ' s rights as guaranteed by the charter , in particular the right to human dignity and the respect for private and family life . specifically as regards homosexuality , the individual assessment of the applicant ' s credibility should not be based on stereotyped notions concerning homosexuals and the applicant should not be submitted to detailed questioning or tests as to his or her sexual practices . ### in accordance with relevant case law of the court of justice of the european union , when assessing applications for international protection , the competent authorities of the member states should use all methods necessary for the assessment of the applicant ' s credibility in a manner that respects the individual ' s rights as guaranteed by the charter , in particular the right to human dignity and the respect for private and family life . specifically as regards homosexuality , the individual assessment of the applicant ' s credibility should not be based on stereotyped notions concerning homosexuals but the applicant should be submitted to detailed questioning or tests as to his or her sexual practices .


### when the refugee status or the subsidiary protection status ceases to exist , the application of the decision by which the determining authority of a member state revokes , ends or does not renew the status should be deferred for a reasonable period of time after adoption , in order to give the third - country national or stateless person concerned the possibility to apply for residence on the basis of other grounds than those having justified the granting of international protection , such as family reasons , or reasons related to employment or to education , in accordance with relevant union and national law . ### when the refugee status or the subsidiary protection status ceases to exist , the application of the decision by which the determining authority of a member state revokes , ends or does not renew the status should be deferred for a reasonable period of time after adoption , in order to give the third - country national or stateless person concerned the possibility to make arrangements for returning to his or her country of origin or , in certain very specific cases of successful assimilation , to apply for residence on the basis of other grounds than those having justified the granting of international protection , such as family reasons , or reasons related to employment or to education , in accordance with relevant union and national law .


### the specific situation of the outermost regions is recognised in article 349 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union . the energy sector in the outermost regions is often characterised by isolation , limited supply and dependence on fossil fuels while these regions benefit from important local renewable sources of energy . the outermost regions could thus serve as examples of the application of innovative energy technologies for the union . it is therefore necessary to promote the uptake of renewable energy in order to achieve a higher degree of energy autonomy for those regions and recognise their specific situation in terms of renewable energy potential and public support needs . ### the specific situation of the outermost regions is recognised in article 349 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union . the energy sector in the outermost regions is often characterised by isolation , limited supply and dependence on fossil fuels while these regions benefit from important local renewable sources of energy . the outermost regions should therefore develop the application of innovative energy technologies for the union . it is therefore necessary to promote the uptake of renewable energy in order to achieve a higher degree of energy autonomy for those regions and recognise their specific situation in terms of renewable energy potential and public support needs ; however , such a policy should take account of local specific needs concerning the protection of biodiversity or the use of renewable energy sources such as biomass .


### biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels should always be produced in a sustainable manner . biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels used for compliance with the union target laid down in this directive , and those which benefit from support schemes , should therefore be required to fulfil sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions savings criteria . ### biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels should always be produced in a sustainable manner . biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels used for compliance with the union target laid down in this directive , and those which benefit from support schemes , should therefore be required to fulfil sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions savings criteria . to this end and in the specific case of agricultural biofuels , it is logical and necessary for the eu to give preference to products and by - products from european farming .


### it is necessary to lay down clear rules for the calculation of greenhouse gas emission savings from biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels and their fossil fuel comparators . ### it is necessary to lay down clear rules for the calculation of greenhouse gas emission savings from biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels and their fossil fuel comparators . the calculation of the carbon footprint caused by importing biofuels from third countries should be added to those rules . logically and with a view to achieving the objectives of promoting the sustainability criteria and reducing greenhouse gas emissions , the eu should give priority to the – controlled – use of products and by - products from the member states .


### the exception should allow authorised entities to make and disseminate online and offline within the union accessible format copies of works or other subject - matter covered by this directive . ### the exception should allow authorised entities to make and disseminate online and offline within union member states accessible format copies of works or other subject - matter covered by this directive .


### it should be possible for accessible format copies made in one member state to be available in all member states , in order to ensure their greater availability across the internal market . this would reduce the demand for redundant work in producing accessible format copies of the same work or other subject matter across the union , thus generating savings and efficiency gains . this directive should therefore ensure that accessible format copies made in one member state may be circulated and accessed in all member states . an authorised entity should thus be able to disseminate those copies , offline or online , to beneficiary persons and authorised entities in any member state . moreover , authorised entities and beneficiary persons should be allowed to obtain or have access to those copies from any authorised entity in any member state . ### it should be possible for accessible format copies made in one member state to be available in all member states , in order to ensure their greater availability . this would reduce the demand for redundant work in producing accessible format copies of the same work or other subject matter across all union member states , thus generating savings and efficiency gains . this directive should therefore ensure that accessible format copies made in one member state may be circulated and accessed in all member states . an authorised entity should thus be able to disseminate those copies , offline or online , to beneficiary persons and authorised entities in any member state . moreover , authorised entities and beneficiary persons should be allowed to obtain or have access to those copies from any authorised entity in any member state .


### under the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , the union recognises and respects the right of people with disabilities to benefit from measures designed to ensure their independence , social and occupational integration and participation in the life of the community . ### under the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the common constitutional traditions of the member states , and , secondarily , the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , the union recognises and respects the right of people with disabilities to benefit from measures designed to ensure their independence , social and occupational integration and participation in the life of the community .


### this directive therefore respects the fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in particular by the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . this directive should be interpreted and applied in accordance with those rights and principles . ### this directive therefore respects the fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in particular in international law and , secondarily , by the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . this directive should be interpreted and applied in accordance with those rights and principles .


### the marrakesh treaty imposes certain obligations regarding the exchange of accessible format copies between the union and third countries that are parties to the treaty . the measures taken by the union to fulfil those obligations are contained in regulation [ … ] which should be read in conjunction with this directive . ### the marrakesh treaty imposes certain obligations regarding the exchange of accessible format copies between union member states , the union , and third countries that are parties to the treaty . the measures taken by the union to fulfil those obligations are contained in regulation [ … ] which should be read in conjunction with this directive .


### ‘ beneficiary person’ means : ### ‘ beneficiary person’ means someone who , regardless of any other disability , has one of the following characteristics , i . e . :


### ‘ accessible format copy’ means a copy of a work or other subject - matter in an alternative manner or form that gives a beneficiary person access to the work or other subject - matter , including allowing for the person to have access as feasibly and comfortably as a person without a visual impairment or any of the disabilities referred to in paragraph 2 ; ### ‘ accessible format copy’ means a copy of a work or other subject - matter , presented on a non - profit basis in an alternative manner or form that gives a beneficiary person access to the work or other subject - matter , including allowing for the person to have access as feasibly and comfortably as a person without a visual impairment or any of the disabilities referred to in paragraph 2 ;


### an authorised entity established in a member state may distribute , communicate or make available to beneficiary persons or to an authorised entity established in a third country that is a party to the marrakesh treaty an accessible format copy made in accordance with the national legislation adopted pursuant to directive [ . . . ] . ### an authorised entity established in a member state may , without engaging in any commercial activity , distribute , communicate or make available to beneficiary persons or to an authorised entity established in a third country that is a party to the marrakesh treaty an accessible format copy made in accordance with the national legislation adopted pursuant to directive [ . . . ] , where , before the copy is distributed and made available , the authorised entity responsible for that distribution is unaware that the accessible format copy could be used for a purpose other than that for which it was originally and primarily intended , for persons other than the beneficiaries .


### a beneficiary person or an authorised entity established in a member state may import or otherwise obtain or access and thereafter use , in accordance with the national legislation adopted pursuant to directive [ . . . ] , an accessible format copy that has been distributed communicated or made available to beneficiary persons or to authorised entities , by an authorised entity in a third country that is a party to the marrakesh treaty . ### a beneficiary person or an authorised entity established in a member state may import or otherwise obtain or access and thereafter use , in accordance with the national legislation adopted pursuant to directive [ . . . ] , with due regard for the legitimate interests of the author , an accessible format copy that has been distributed , communicated or made available to beneficiary persons or to authorised entities , by an authorised entity in a third country that is a party to the marrakesh treaty .


### it demonstrates due care in , and maintains records of , its handling of works and other subject - matter and of their accessible format copies ; and ### it demonstrates due care in , and maintains records of , its handling of works and other subject - matter and of their accessible format copies , and does so with due respect for private and family life and the right to protection of personal data as enshrined in the un international covenant on civil and political rights , and in the un resolution of 14 december 1990 on guidelines for the regulation of computerized personal data files ; and


### member states shall examine any application for international protection by a third - country national or a stateless person who applies on the territory of any one of them , including at the border or in the transit zones . the application shall be examined by a single member state , which shall be the one which the criteria set out in chapter iii indicate is responsible . ### member states shall examine any application for international protection by a third - country national or a stateless person who applies on the territory of any one of them , including at the border , in third countries or in the transit zones . the application shall be examined by a single member state , which shall be the one identified as responsible .


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this specific programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this specific programme are expected to contribute 35% of the overall financial envelope of the specific programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the specific programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . ### reflecting the urgent importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this specific programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this specific programme are expected to contribute 35% of the overall financial envelope of the specific programme to climate objectives . the aim is to translate the general target of allocating 25% of eu budget expenditure to furthering the climate objectives into something concrete . relevant actions will be identified during the specific programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes .


### the specific programme ' s actions should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating or crowding out private financing and have a clear european added value . ### the specific programme ' s actions should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating or crowding out private financing and have a clear added value .


### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should make to address challenges in food , agriculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 10 billion for the cluster ' food and natural resources ' for the period 2021 - 2027 . ### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should be able to make to address challenges in food , agriculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities despite the common agricultural policy , the objectives and nature of which are not in line with the environmental and climate objectives of the eu , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 10 billion for the cluster ' food and natural resources ' for the period 2021 - 2027 .


### this regulation shall apply to new vehicles of the categories n2 and n3 that meet the following characteristics : ### this regulation shall apply to new motorised vehicles of the categories n2 and n3 that meet the following characteristics :


### for that purpose , the commission shall ensure the availability , from manufacturers or national authorities , as the case may be , of robust non - personal data on real - world co2 emissions and energy consumption of heavy - duty vehicles . ### for that purpose , the commission shall ensure the availability , from manufacturers or national authorities , as the case may be , of robust non - personal data on real - world co2 emissions and energy consumption of motorised heavy - duty vehicles , taking into account the specific operating conditions that apply owing to the type of bodywork concerned , or the type of semi - trailer to be coupled .


### the goal of a resilient energy union with an ambitious climate policy at its core is to give union consumers , both households and businesses , secure , sustainable , competitive and affordable energy , which requires a fundamental transformation of europe’s energy system . that objective can only be achieved through coordinated action , combining both legislative and non - legislative acts at union and national level . ### the goal of the union’s policy in the field of energy is to give the public and businesses in the eu secure , sustainable , competitive and affordable energy , which requires a fundamental transformation of the member states’ energy system . that objective can more easily be achieved through coordinated action , combining both legislative and non - legislative acts at union and national level .


### therefore , the main objective of the energy union governance should be to enable the achievement of the objectives of the energy union and in particular the targets of the 2030 framework for climate and energy . this regulation is therefore linked to sectorial legislation implementing the 2030 targets for energy and climate . while member states need flexibility to choose policies that are best - matched to their national energy mix and preferences , that flexibility should be compatible with further market integration , increased competition , the attainment of climate and energy objectives and the gradual shift towards a low - carbon economy . ### therefore , the main objective of the governance of the union’s policy in the field of energy should be to enable the achievement of the objectives of the union in the field of energy and in particular the targets of the 2030 framework for climate and energy . this regulation is therefore linked to sectorial legislation implementing the 2030 targets for energy and climate . member states need flexibility to choose policies that are best - matched to their national energy mix and preferences .


### the transition to a low - carbon economy requires changes in investment behaviour and incentives across the entire policy spectrum . achieving greenhouse gas emission reductions requires a boost to efficiency and innovation in the european economy and in particular should also lead to improvements of air quality . ### the transition to a low - energy economy requires changes in investment behaviour and incentives across the entire policy spectrum . achieving fuel import reductions requires a boost to efficiency and innovation in the european economy and in particular should also lead to improvements of air quality and an increase in member states’ independence and resilience .


### as greenhouse gases and air pollutants largely derive from common sources , policy designed to reduce ghgs can have co - benefits for air quality that could offset some or all of the near - term costs of ghg mitigation . as data reported under directive 2001 / 81 / ec18 of the european parliament and the council represent an important input for the compilation of the ghg inventory and the national plans , the importance of compilation and reporting of consistent data between directive 2001 / 81 / ec and the ghg inventory should be recognised . __________________ 18 directive 2001 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and the council on national emission ceilings for certain pollutants . ### as greenhouse gases and air pollutants largely derive from common sources , energy efficiency policy can have co - benefits for air quality that could offset some or all of the near - term costs of ghg mitigation .


### as greenhouse gases and air pollutants largely derive from common sources , policy designed to reduce ghgs can have co - benefits for air quality that could offset some or all of the near - term costs of ghg mitigation . as data reported under directive 2001 / 81 / ec18 of the european parliament and the council represent an important input for the compilation of the ghg inventory and the national plans , the importance of compilation and reporting of consistent data between directive 2001 / 81 / ec and the ghg inventory should be recognised . __________________ 18 directive 2001 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and the council on national emission ceilings for certain pollutants . ### as greenhouse gases and air pollutants largely derive from common sources , policy designed to reduce ghgs can have co - benefits for air quality , particularly in urban areas , that could offset some or all of the near - term costs of ghg mitigation . as data reported under directive 2001 / 81 / ec18 of the european parliament and the council represent an important input for the compilation of the ghg inventory and the national plans , the importance of compilation and reporting of consistent data between directive 2001 / 81 / ec and the ghg inventory should be recognised . __________________ 18 directive 2001 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and the council on national emission ceilings for certain pollutants .


### as greenhouse gases and air pollutants largely derive from common sources , policy designed to reduce ghgs can have co - benefits for air quality that could offset some or all of the near - term costs of ghg mitigation . as data reported under directive 2001 / 81 / ec18 of the european parliament and the council18 represent an important input for the compilation of the ghg inventory and the national plans , the importance of compilation and reporting of consistent data between directive 2001 / 81 / ec and the ghg inventory should be recognised . __________________ 18 directive 2001 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and the council on national emission ceilings for certain pollutants . ### as greenhouse gases and air pollutants largely derive from common sources , policy designed to reduce ghgs can have co - benefits for air quality that could offset some or all of the costs of ghg mitigation . as data reported under directive 2001 / 81 / ec18 of the european parliament and the council18 represent an important input for the compilation of the ghg inventory and the national plans , the importance of compilation and reporting of consistent data between directive 2001 / 81 / ec and the ghg inventory should be recognised . __________________ 18 directive 2001 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and the council on national emission ceilings for certain pollutants .


### the achievement of the energy union objectives should be ensured through a combination of union initiatives and coherent national policies set out in integrated national energy and climate plans . sectorial union legislation in the energy and climate fields sets out planning requirements , which have been useful tools to drive change at the national level . their introduction at different moments in time has led to overlaps and insufficient consideration of synergies and interactions between policy areas . current separate planning , reporting and monitoring in the climate and energy fields should therefore as far as possible be streamlined and integrated . ### the achievement of the energy union objectives should be ensured through the coordination of coherent national policies set out in integrated national energy and climate plans . sectorial union legislation in the energy and climate fields sets out planning requirements , which have been useful tools to drive change at the national level . their introduction at different moments in time has led to overlaps and insufficient consideration of synergies and interactions between policy areas . current separate planning , reporting and monitoring in the climate and energy fields should therefore as far as possible be streamlined and integrated .


### the integrated national energy and climate plans should cover ten - year periods and provide an overview of the current energy system and policy situation . they should set out national objectives for each of the five key dimensions of the energy union and corresponding policies and measures to meet those objectives and have an analytical basis . the national plans covering the first period from 2021 to 2030 should pay particular attention to the 2030 targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions , renewable energy , energy efficiency and electricity interconnection . member states should aim to ensure that the national plans are consistent with and contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals . ### the integrated national energy and climate plans should cover ten - year periods and provide an overview of the current energy system and policy situation , particularly by means of a health check or an audit of current energy systems concerning , for example , the building stock and the energy efficiency of buildings . they should set out national objectives for each of the five key dimensions of the energy union and corresponding policies and measures to meet those objectives and have an analytical basis . the national plans covering the first period from 2021 to 2030 should pay particular attention to the 2030 targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions , renewable energy , energy efficiency and electricity interconnection . member states should aim to ensure that the national plans are consistent with and contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals .


### the integrated national energy and climate plans should cover ten - year periods and provide an overview of the current energy system and policy situation . they should set out national objectives for each of the five key dimensions of the energy union and corresponding policies and measures to meet those objectives and have an analytical basis . the national plans covering the first period from 2021 to 2030 should pay particular attention to the 2030 targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions , renewable energy , energy efficiency and electricity interconnection . member states should aim to ensure that the national plans are consistent with and contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals . ### the integrated national energy and climate plans should cover ten - year periods and provide an overview of the current energy system and policy situation . they should set out national objectives for each of the five key dimensions of the energy union and corresponding policies and measures to meet those objectives and have an analytical basis . the national plans covering the first period from 2021 to 2030 should pay particular attention to the 2030 targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions , renewable energy , energy efficiency and electricity interconnection . member states should aim to ensure that the national plans are consistent with and contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals , with particular regard to decarbonisation .


### regional cooperation is key to ensure an effective achievement of the objectives of the energy union . member states should get the opportunity to comment on other member states ' plans before they are finalised to avoid inconsistencies and potential negative impacts on other member states and ensure that common objectives are met collectively . regional cooperation in elaborating and finalising national plans as well as in the subsequent implementation of national plans should be essential to improve effectiveness and efficiency of measures and foster market integration and energy security . ### cooperation among the member states is key to ensure an effective achievement of the objectives of the energy union . member states should get the opportunity to comment on other member states ' plans before they are finalised to avoid inconsistencies and potential negative impacts on other member states and ensure that common objectives are met collectively . cooperation among the member states in elaborating and finalising national plans as well as in the subsequent implementation of national plans should be essential to improve effectiveness and efficiency of measures and foster market integration and energy security .


### regional cooperation is key to ensure an effective achievement of the objectives of the energy union . member states should get the opportunity to comment on other member states ' plans before they are finalised to avoid inconsistencies and potential negative impacts on other member states and ensure that common objectives are met collectively . regional cooperation in elaborating and finalising national plans as well as in the subsequent implementation of national plans should be essential to improve effectiveness and efficiency of measures and foster market integration and energy security . ### regional cooperation is key to ensure an effective achievement of the objectives of the energy union . member states should get the opportunity to comment on other member states ' plans before they are finalised to avoid inconsistencies and potential negative impacts on other member states and ensure that common objectives are met collectively . regional cooperation in elaborating and finalising national plans as well as in the subsequent implementation of national plans should be essential to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of measures and foster energy security .


### regional cooperation is key to ensure an effective achievement of the objectives of the energy union . member states should get the opportunity to comment on other member states’ plans before they are finalised to avoid inconsistencies and potential negative impacts on other member states and ensure that common objectives are met collectively . regional cooperation in elaborating and finalising national plans as well as in the subsequent implementation of national plans should be essential to improve effectiveness and efficiency of measures and foster market integration and energy security . ### regional cooperation is key to ensure an effective achievement of the objectives of the energy union . member states should get the opportunity to comment on other member states’ plans before they are finalised to avoid potential negative impacts on other member states and ensure that common objectives are met collectively . regional cooperation in elaborating and finalising national plans as well as in the subsequent implementation of national plans should be essential to improve effectiveness and efficiency of measures and foster market integration and energy security .


### in order to limit administrative burden on member states and the commission , the latter should establish an online reporting platform to facilitate communication and promote cooperation . that should ensure timely submission of reports and facilitate improved transparency on national reporting . the e - reporting platform should complement , build on and benefit from existing reporting processes , databases and e - tools , such as those of the european environment agency , eurostat , the joint research centre and the lessons learned from the union ' s eco - management and audit scheme . ### in order to limit administrative burden on the member states , an online reporting platform should be established to facilitate communication and promote cooperation . that should ensure timely submission of reports and facilitate improved transparency on national reporting . the e - reporting platform should complement , build on and benefit from existing reporting processes , databases and e - tools , such as those of the european environment agency , eurostat , the joint research centre and the lessons learned from the union ' s eco - management and audit scheme .


### to help ensure coherence between national and union policies and objectives of the energy union , there should be an on - going dialogue between the commission and the member states . as appropriate , the commission should issue recommendations to member states including on the level of ambition of the draft national plans , on the subsequent implementation of policies and measures of the notified national plans , and on other national policies and measures of relevance for the implementation of the energy union . member states should take utmost account of such recommendations and explain in subsequent progress reports how they have been implemented . ### to help ensure coherence between member state policies , there should be an on - going dialogue between the member states . as appropriate , the council should issue recommendations to member states including on the level of ambition of the draft national plans , on the subsequent implementation of policies and measures of the notified national plans , and on other national policies and measures of relevance for the implementation of the energy union . member states should take utmost account of such recommendations and explain in subsequent progress reports how they have been implemented .


### should the ambition of integrated national energy and climate plans or their updates be insufficient for the collective achievement of the energy union objectives and , for the first period , in particular the 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency , the commission should take measures at union level in order to ensure the collective achievement of these objectives and targets . should progress made by the union towards these objectives and targets be insufficient for their delivery , the commission should , in addition to issuing recommendations , take measures at union level or member states should take additional measures in order to ensure achievement of these objectives and targets . such measures should take into account early ambitious contributions made by member states to the 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency when sharing the effort for collective target achievement . in the area of renewable energy , such measures can also include financial contributions by member states to a financing platform managed by the commission , which would be used to contribute to renewable energy projects across the union . member states’ national renewable energy targets for 2020 should serve as baseline shares of renewable energy from 2021 onwards . in the area of energy efficiency , additional measures can in particular aim at improving the energy efficiency of products , buildings and transport . ### should the ambition of integrated national energy and climate plans or their updates be considered insufficient for the collective achievement of the union’s binding objectives in the field of energy , the commission may launch infringement proceedings against defaulting member states , within the scope of its powers to monitor the application of the law of the european union .


### member states and the commission should ensure close cooperation on all matters relating to the implementation of the energy union and this regulation , with close involvement of the european parliament . the commission should as appropriate assist member states in implementing this regulation , particularly with regard to the establishment of the national plans and associated capacity building . ### member states and the commission may cooperate on all matters relating to the implementation of the union’s policy in the field of energy and this regulation , with close involvement of the european parliament . the commission should as appropriate assist member states in implementing this regulation , particularly with regard to the establishment of the national plans and associated capacity building .


### ensure the timeliness , transparency , accuracy , consistency , comparability and completeness of reporting by the union and its member states to the unfccc and paris agreement secretariat . ### ensure the timeliness , transparency , accuracy , consistency , comparability and completeness of reporting by the member states to the unfccc and paris agreement secretariat .


### the governance mechanism shall be based on integrated national energy and climate plans covering ten - year periods starting from 2021 to 2030 , corresponding integrated national energy and climate progress reports by the member states and integrated monitoring arrangements by the european commission . it shall define a structured , iterative process between the commission and member states in view of the finalisation of the national plans and their subsequent implementation , including with regard to regional cooperation , and corresponding commission action . ### the governance mechanism shall be based on integrated national energy and climate plans covering ten - year periods starting from 2021 to 2030 , corresponding integrated national energy and climate progress reports by the member states . it shall define a structured , iterative process between the commission and member states in view of the finalisation of the national plans and their subsequent implementation , including with regard to regional cooperation , and corresponding commission action .


### energy market , ### energy market , and especially its regulation :


### ' adopted policies and measures ' mean policies and measures for which an official government decision has been made by the date of submission of the national plan or progress report and there is a clear commitment to proceed with implementation ; ### ' adopted policies and measures ' mean policies and measures for which an official decision has been made by the competent national authorities by the date of submission of the national plan or progress report to proceed with implementation ;


### by 1 january 2019 and every ten years thereafter , each member state shall notify to the commission an integrated national energy and climate plan . the plans shall contain the elements set out in paragraph 2 and annex i . the first plan shall cover the period from 2021 to 2030 . the following plans shall cover the ten - year period immediately following the end of the period covered by the previous plan . ### by 1 january 2019 and every ten years thereafter , each member state shall notify to the commission an integrated national energy and climate plan . the plans shall contain the elements set out in paragraph 2 and annex i . the first plan covers the period from 2021 to 2030 , as well as any subsequent period at the discretion of the member states . the following plans shall cover the ten - year period immediately following the end of the period covered by the previous plan .


### a description of the current situation of the five dimensions of the energy union including with regard to the energy system and greenhouse gas emissions and removals as well as projections with regard to the objectives referred to in point with already existing policies and measures ; ### a description of the current situation of the five dimensions of the energy union including with regard to the energy system and greenhouse gas emissions and removals as well as projections with regard to the objectives referred to in point with already existing policies and measures as well as any other specific aspect that the member state wishes to draw to the commission ' s attention ;


### with a view to achieving the union ' s binding target of at least 27% renewable energy in 2030 as referred to in article 3 of [ recast of directive 2009 / 28 / ec as proposed by com 767 ] , a contribution to this target in terms of the member state ' s share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2030 , with a linear trajectory for that contribution from 2021 onwards ; ### with a view to achieving the union ' s binding target of at least 27% renewable energy in 2030 as referred to in article 3 of [ recast of directive 2009 / 28 / ec as proposed by com 767 ] , a contribution to this target in terms of the member state ' s share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2030 ;


### the objectives for the long - term renovation of the national stock of residential and commercial buildings ; ### a diagnosis of the existing building stock , and the objectives of the long term renovation of the national stock of residential , commercial and administrative buildings , laying the accent on the potential for energy savings expected by focusing , to the extent possible and depending on member states’ financial capacity , on thorough renovation and ambitious renovation strategies making for substantial energy savings of around 60% for a given building ;


### when setting their indicative national energy efficiency contribution for 2030 and the last year of the period covered for the subsequent national plans pursuant to article 4 , member states shall ensure that : ### when setting their indicative national energy efficiency contribution for 2030 and the last year of the period covered for the subsequent national plans pursuant to article 4 , member states shall take into account the union’s objectives for 2030 set out in articles 1 to 3 of directive eu / 2012 / 27 [ as amended by proposal com761 ] .


### without prejudice to any other union law requirements , member states shall ensure that the public is given early and effective opportunities to participate in the preparation of draft plans referred to in article 9 and attach to the submission of their draft integrated national energy and climate plan to the commission a summary of the public’s views . in so far as the provisions of directive 2001 / 42 / ec are applicable , consultations undertaken in accordance with that directive shall be deemed to satisfy also the obligations to consult the public under this regulation . ### without prejudice to any other union law requirements , member states shall ensure that the public is given early and effective opportunities to participate in the preparation of plans referred to in article 3 and attach to the notification of their integrated national energy and climate plan to the commission a summary of the public’s views . in so far as the provisions of directive 2001 / 42 / ec are applicable , consultations undertaken in accordance with that directive shall be deemed to satisfy also the obligations to consult the public under this regulation .


### member states shall cooperate with each other at regional level to effectively meet the targets , objectives and contributions set out in their integrated national energy and climate plan . ### member states may cooperate with each other at regional level to effectively meet the targets , objectives and contributions set out in their integrated national energy and climate plan .


### member states shall , well before submitting their draft integrated national energy and climate plan to the commission pursuant to article 9 , identify opportunities for regional cooperation and consult neighbouring member states and the other member states expressing an interest . member states shall set out in their draft integrated national energy and climate plans the results of such regional consultation , including where applicable how comments have been taken into account . ### member states shall , well before notifying their integrated national energy and climate plan to the commission pursuant to article 3 , identify opportunities for regional cooperation and consult neighbouring member states and the other member states expressing an interest . member states shall set out in their integrated national energy and climate plans the results of such regional consultation , including where applicable how comments have been taken into account .


### member states shall , well before submitting their draft integrated national energy and climate plan to the commission pursuant to article 9 , identify opportunities for regional cooperation and consult neighbouring member states and the other member states expressing an interest . member states shall set out in their draft integrated national energy and climate plans the results of such regional consultation , including where applicable how comments have been taken into account . ### member states shall , well before submitting their draft integrated national energy and climate plan to the commission pursuant to article 9 , identify opportunities for regional cooperation and consult neighbouring member states and the other member states expressing an interest . member states shall set out in their draft integrated national energy and climate plans a short presentation of how they envisage their cooperation with local governments and local authorities in other member states , including where applicable how comments have been taken into account .


### member states shall , well before submitting their draft integrated national energy and climate plan to the commission pursuant to article 9 , identify opportunities for regional cooperation and consult neighbouring member states and the other member states expressing an interest . member states shall set out in their draft integrated national energy and climate plans the results of such regional consultation , including where applicable how comments have been taken into account . ### member states shall , before submitting their draft integrated national energy and climate plan to the commission pursuant to article 9 , identify possible opportunities for cooperation between member states and consult neighbouring member states and the other member states expressing an interest . member states shall set out in their draft integrated national energy and climate plans the results of such regional consultation , including where applicable how comments have been taken into account .


### the commission shall assess the integrated national energy and climate plans and their updates as notified pursuant to articles 3 and 13 . it shall assess in particular whether : ### the council shall assess the integrated national energy and climate plans and their updates published pursuant to articles 3 and 13 . it shall assess in particular whether :


### member states shall use the online platform for the purposes of submitting to the commission the reports referred to in this chapter once the platform becomes operational . ### member states may use the online platform for the purposes of submitting to the commission the reports referred to in this chapter once the platform becomes operational .


### by 31 october 2021 and every second year thereafter , the commission shall assess , in particular on the basis of the integrated national energy and climate progress reports , of other information reported under this regulation , of the indicators and of european statistics where available : ### by 31 october 2021 and every second year thereafter , the council shall assess , in particular on the basis of the integrated national energy and climate progress reports , of other information reported under this regulation , of the indicators and of european statistics where available :


### the progress made at union level towards meeting the objectives of the energy union , including for the first ten - year period the union ' s 2030 targets for energy and climate , notably in view of avoiding any gaps to the union ' s 2030 targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency ; ### the progress made at union level towards meeting the objectives of the union ' s policy in the energy sector , including for the first ten - year period the union ' s 2030 targets for energy and climate ;


### in the area of renewable energy , as part of its assessment referred to in paragraph 1 , the commission shall assess the progress made in the share of energy from renewable sources in the union’s gross final consumption on the basis of a linear trajectory starting from 20 % in 2020 and reaching at least 27 % in 2030 as referred to in article 4 . ### in the area of renewable energy , as part of its assessment referred to in paragraph 1 , the commission shall assess the progress made in the share of energy from renewable sources in the union’s gross final consumption on the basis of a linear trajectory starting from 20 % in 2020 and reaching at least 27 % in 2030 as referred to in article 4 , taking account of the specific situation of the member state concerned and particularly the aspects referred to in article 18 .


### in the area of renewable energy , as part of its assessment referred to in paragraph 1 , the commission shall assess the progress made in the share of energy from renewable sources in the union’s gross final consumption on the basis of a linear trajectory starting from 20 % in 2020 and reaching at least 27 % in 2030 as referred to in article 4 . ### in the area of renewable energy , as part of its assessment referred to in paragraph 1 , the council shall assess the progress made in the share of energy from renewable sources in the union’s gross final consumption on the basis of a linear trajectory starting from 20 % in 2020 and reaching at least 27 % in 2030 as referred to in article 4 .


### in the area of energy efficiency , as part of its assessment referred to in paragraph 1 , the commission shall assess progress towards collectively achieving a maximum energy consumption at union level of 1 321 mtoe of primary energy consumption and 987 mtoe of final energy consumption in 2030 as referred to in article 6 . ### in the area of energy efficiency , as part of its assessment referred to in paragraph 1 , the council shall assess progress towards collectively achieving a maximum energy consumption at union level of 1 321 mtoe of primary energy consumption and 987 mtoe of final energy consumption in 2030 as referred to in article 6 .


### if , on the basis of its assessment pursuant to article 25 , the commission concludes that insufficient progress is made by a member state towards meeting the targets , objectives and contributions or implementing the policies and measures set out in its integrated national climate and energy plan , it shall issue recommendations to the member state concerned pursuant to article 28 . in issuing such recommendations , the commission shall take into consideration ambitious early efforts by member states to contribute to the union ' s 2030 target for renewable energy . ### if , on the basis of its assessment pursuant to article 25 , the council concludes that insufficient progress is made by a member state towards meeting the targets , objectives and contributions or implementing the policies and measures set out in its integrated national climate and energy plan , it shall issue recommendations to the member state concerned pursuant to article 28 . in issuing such recommendations , the council shall take into consideration ambitious early efforts by member states to contribute to the union ' s 2030 target for renewable energy .


### in 2027 and 2032 , the commission shall carry out a comprehensive review of the national inventory data submitted by member states pursuant to article 23 of this regulation with a view to monitoring member states ' greenhouse gas emission reductions or limitations pursuant to articles 4 , 9 and 10 of regulation [ ] [ esr ] and their reduction of emissions and enhancement of removals by sinks pursuant to articles 4 and 12 of regulation [ ] [ lulucf ] and any other greenhouse gas emission reduction or limitation targets set out in union legislation . member states shall participate fully in that process . ### in 2027 and 2032 , the council , with the support of the commission , shall carry out a comprehensive review of the national inventory data submitted by member states pursuant to article 23 of this regulation with a view to monitoring member states ' greenhouse gas emission reductions or limitations pursuant to articles 4 , 9 and 10 of regulation [ ] [ esr ] and their reduction of emissions and enhancement of removals by sinks pursuant to articles 4 and 12 of regulation [ ] [ lulucf ] and any other greenhouse gas emission reduction or limitation targets set out in union legislation . member states shall participate fully in that process .


### the european environment agency shall assist the commission in its work as regards the decarbonisation and energy efficiency dimensions to comply with articles 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 29 , 30 , 31 , 32 and 34 in accordance with its annual work programme . that shall include assistance , as required , with : ### the european environment agency shall assist the commission in its work as regards the decarbonisation and energy efficiency dimensions to comply with articles 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 29 , 30 , 31 , 32 and 34 in accordance with its annual work programme . that shall include assistance to the member states , as required , with :


### the commission shall be assisted by an energy union committee . that committee shall be a committee within the meaning of regulation no 182 / 2011 and work in the respective sectorial formations relevant for this regulation . ### the council shall be assisted by an energy union committee . that committee shall be a committee within the meaning of regulation no 182 / 2011 and work in the respective sectorial formations relevant for this regulation .


### the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council by 28 february 2026 and every five years thereafter on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the governance of the energy union and the conformity of the planning , reporting and monitoring provisions of this regulation with other union legislation or future decisions relating to the unfccc and the paris agreement . the commission may make proposals if appropriate . ### an energy transition financing committee , attached to the council , shall be established , comprising representatives of the council , the european central bank and the european parliament . that committee shall have the task of studying and proposing to the european council a strategy for quantitative easing for the benefit of the sectors of the economy which contribute to the energy transition and , as a priority , to energy efficiency and renewable energy . this strategy shall have the aim of helping those countries of the union which have structural balance - of - payments deficits to rebalance by means of profitable investment in the above sectors . this strategy shall be based on the establishment of an investment agency which shall support the member states concerned in developing projects , involving their national development banks and driving a proactive policy .


### having regard to the opinions of the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions , ### having regard to the opinions of the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the european court of auditors ,


### eib financing and investment operations supported by the efsi should be managed in accordance with the eib’s own rules and procedures , including appropriate control measures and measures taken to avoid tax evasion , as well as with the relevant rules and procedures concerning the european anti - fraud office and the court of auditors , including the tripartite agreement between the european commission , the european court of auditors and the european investment bank . ### eib financing and investment operations supported by the efsi should be managed in accordance with the eib’s own rules and procedures , including appropriate control measures and measures taken to avoid tax evasion , as well as with the relevant rules and procedures concerning the european anti - fraud office and the court of auditors , including the tripartite agreement between the european commission , the european court of auditors and the european investment bank . it therefore needs to be established without delay that the new transparency policies adopted recently by the eib have not been watered down in any way .


### the eib should regularly evaluate activities supported by the efsi with a view to assessing their relevance , performance and impact and to identifying aspects that could improve future activities . such evaluations should contribute to accountability and analysis of sustainability . ### the eib and the investment committee should regularly evaluate and report on activities supported by the efsi with a view to assessing their relevance , performance and impact and to identifying aspects that could improve future activities . such evaluations should contribute to public accountability and analysis of economic , environmental and social sustainability .


### the efsi agreement shall provide that the efsi shall be governed by a steering board , which shall determine the strategic orientation , the strategic asset allocation and operating policies and procedures , including the investment policy of projects that efsi can support and the risk profile of the efsi , in conformity with the objectives under article 5 . the steering board shall elect one of its members to be chairperson . ### the efsi agreement shall provide that the efsi shall be governed by a steering board , which shall determine the strategic orientation , the strategic asset allocation and operating policies and procedures , including the investment policy of projects that efsi can support and the risk profile of the efsi , in conformity with the objectives under article 5 . the steering board , consisting of one representative of the eib , one of the commission and one for each member state , shall elect one of its members to be chairperson and shall be subject to the binding approval of the european parliament .


### the steering board shall take decisions by consensus . ### the steering board shall take decisions by consensus and shall make its decisions public and accessible .


### the managing director and the deputy managing director shall be appointed by the steering board on a joint proposal of the commission and the eib for a renewable fixed term of three years . ### the managing director and the deputy managing director shall be appointed by the steering board on a joint proposal of the commission and the eib , subject to the prior approval of the european parliament , for a once renewable fixed term of three years .


### decisions of the investment committee shall be taken by simple majority . ### decisions of the investment committee shall be taken by simple majority and its decisions shall be public and accessible .


### the eib , in cooperation with the eif as appropriate , shall report semi - annually to the commission on eib financing and investment operations under this regulation . the report shall include an assessment of compliance with the requirements on the use of the eu guarantee and the key performance indicators established pursuant to article 2 . the report shall also include statistical , financial and accounting data on each eib financing and investment operation and on an aggregated basis . ### the eib and the steering board , in cooperation with the eif as appropriate , shall report quarterly to the commission on eib financing and investment operations under this regulation . the report shall include an assessment of compliance with the requirements on the use of the eu guarantee and the key performance indicators established pursuant to article 2 . the report shall also include statistical , financial and accounting data on each eib financing and investment operation and on an aggregated basis .


### the eib , in cooperation with the eif as appropriate , shall report annually to the european parliament and to the council on eib financing and investment operations . the report shall be made public and include : ### the eib and the steering committee , in cooperation with the eif as appropriate , shall report semi - annually to the european parliament and to the council on eib financing and investment operations . the report shall be made public and accessible and shall include :


### at the request of the european parliament , the managing director shall participate in a hearing of the european parliament on the performance of the efsi . ### at the request of the european parliament , and at least twice each year , the managing director shall participate in a hearing of the european parliament on the performance of the efsi .