### in order to ensure that annex ix takes into account the principles of the waste hierarchy established in directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council17 , the union sustainability criteria , and the need to ensure that the annex does not create additional demand for land while promoting the use of wastes and residues , the commission , when regularly evaluating the annex , should consider the inclusion of additional feedstocks that do not cause significant distortive effects on markets for products , wastes or residues . __________________ 17 directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 19 november 2008 on waste and repealing certain directives . ### in order to ensure that annex ix takes into account the principles of the circular economy , the waste hierarchy established in directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council17 , the union sustainability criteria , a lifecycle assessment of emissions and the need to ensure that the annex does not create additional demand for land while promoting the use of wastes and residues , the commission should regularly evaluate the annex and consider the effects on markets for products , wastes or residues in any amendments that it proposes . __________________ 17 directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 19 november 2008 on waste and repealing certain directives .


### in order to ensure that annex ix takes into account the principles of the waste hierarchy established in directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council25 , the union sustainability criteria , and the need to ensure that the annex does not create additional demand for land while promoting the use of wastes and residues , the commission , when regularly evaluating the annex , should consider the inclusion of additional feedstocks that do not cause significant distortive effects on markets for products , wastes or residues . __________________ 25 directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 19 november 2008 on waste and repealing certain directives . ### in order to ensure that annex ix takes into account the principles of the waste hierarchy established in directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council25 , the union sustainability criteria , the principle of cascading use , and the need to ensure that that annex does not create additional demand for land while promoting the use of wastes and residues , the commission , when regularly evaluating that annex , should consider the inclusion of additional feedstocks that are able to deliver substantial greenhouse gas emission savings based on a lifecycle assessment , taking into account indirect emissions related to any displacement effects , and that do not cause significant distortive effects on markets for products , wastes or residues . __________________ 25 directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 19 november 2008 on waste and repealing certain directives .


### it should be possible for imported electricity , produced from renewable energy sources outside the union to count towards member states’ renewable energy shares in order to guarantee an adequate effect of energy from renewable sources replacing conventional energy in the union as well as in third countries it is appropriate to ensure that such imports can be tracked and accounted for in a reliable way . agreements with third countries concerning the organisation of such trade in electricity from renewable energy sources will be considered . if , by virtue of a decision taken under the energy community treaty18 to that effect , the contracting parties to that treaty are bound by the relevant provisions of this directive , the measures of cooperation between member states provided for in this directive should be applicable to them . __________________ 18 oj l 198 , 20 . 7 . 2006 , p . 18 . ### it should be possible for imported electricity , produced from renewable energy sources outside the union , to count towards member states ' renewable energy targets . however , to avoid a net increase in greenhouse gas emissions through the diversion of existing renewable sources and their complete or partial replacement by conventional energy sources , only electricity produced by renewable energy installations that become operational after the entry into force of this directive or by the increased capacity of an installation that was refurbished after that date should be eligible to be counted . in order to guarantee an adequate effect of energy from renewable sources replacing conventional energy in the union as well as in third countries it is appropriate to ensure that such imports can be tracked and accounted for in a reliable way . agreements with third countries concerning the organisation of such trade in electricity from renewable energy sources will be considered . if , by virtue of a decision taken under the energy community treaty to that effect , the contracting parties to that treaty are bound by the relevant provisions of this directive , the measures of cooperation between member states provided for in this directive should be applicable to them . __________________ 18 oj l 198 , 20 . 7 . 2006 , p . 18 .


### at national and regional level , rules and obligations for minimum requirements for the use of energy from renewable sources in new and renovated buildings have led to considerable increases in the use of energy from renewable sources . those measures should be encouraged in a wider union context , while promoting the use of more energy - efficient applications of energy from renewable sources through building regulations and codes . ### at national and regional level , rules and obligations for minimum requirements for the use of energy from renewable sources in new and renovated buildings have led to considerable increases in the use of energy from renewable sources . those measures should be encouraged in a wider union context , while promoting the use of more energy - efficient applications of energy from renewable sources in combination with energy saving and energy efficiency measures through building regulations and codes .


### to ensure that national measures for developing renewable heating and cooling are based on comprehensive mapping and analysis of the national renewable and waste energy potential and provide for increased integration of renewable energy and waste heat and cold sources , it is appropriate to require that member states carry out an assessment of their national potential of renewable energy sources and the use of waste heat and cold for heating and cooling , in particular to facilitate mainstreaming renewable energy in heating and cooling installations and promote efficient and competitive district heating and cooling as defined by article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council21 . to ensure consistency with energy efficiency requirements for heating and cooling and reduce administrative burden this assessment should be included in the comprehensive assessments carried out and notified in accordance with article 14 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu . __________________ 21 directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on energy efficiency , amending directives 2009 / 125 / ec and 2010 / 30 / eu and repealing directives 2004 / 8 / ec and 2006 / 32 / ec . ### to ensure that national measures for developing renewable heating and cooling are based on comprehensive mapping and analysis of the national renewable and waste energy potential and provide for increased integration of renewable energy , in particular by supporting innovative technologies such as heat pumps , geothermal and solar thermal technologies , and waste heat and cold sources , it is appropriate to require that member states carry out an assessment of their national potential of renewable energy sources and the use of waste heat and cold for heating and cooling , in particular to facilitate mainstreaming renewable energy in heating and cooling installations and promote efficient and competitive district heating and cooling as defined by article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council21 . to ensure consistency with energy efficiency requirements for heating and cooling and reduce administrative burden this assessment should be included in the comprehensive assessments carried out and notified in accordance with article 14 of that directive . __________________ 21 directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on energy efficiency , amending directives 2009 / 125 / ec and 2010 / 30 / eu and repealing directives 2004 / 8 / ec and 2006 / 32 / ec .


### to ensure that national measures for developing renewable heating and cooling are based on comprehensive mapping and analysis of the national renewable and waste energy potential and provide for increased integration of renewable energy and waste heat and cold sources , it is appropriate to require that member states carry out an assessment of their national potential of renewable energy sources and the use of waste heat and cold for heating and cooling , in particular to facilitate mainstreaming renewable energy in heating and cooling installations and promote efficient and competitive district heating and cooling as defined by article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council21 . to ensure consistency with energy efficiency requirements for heating and cooling and reduce administrative burden this assessment should be included in the comprehensive assessments carried out and notified in accordance with article 14 of that directive . __________________ 21 directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on energy efficiency , amending directives 2009 / 125 / ec and 2010 / 30 / eu and repealing directives 2004 / 8 / ec and 2006 / 32 / ec . ### to ensure that national measures for developing renewable heating and cooling are based on comprehensive mapping and analysis of the national renewable and waste energy potential and provide for increased integration of renewable energy and waste heat and cold sources , it is appropriate to require that member states carry out with the involvement of local and regional authorities an assessment of their national potential of renewable energy sources and the use of waste heat and cold for heating and cooling , including early spatial planning , needs and adequacy assessments taking account of the energy efficiency first principle , with the aim of facilitating the mainstreaming of renewable energy in heating and cooling installations and promote efficient and competitive renewable based district heating and cooling as defined by article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council . to ensure consistency with energy efficiency requirements for heating and cooling and reduce administrative burden this assessment should be included in the comprehensive assessments carried out and notified in accordance with article 14 of that directive . __________________ 21 directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on energy efficiency , amending directives 2009 / 125 / ec and 2010 / 30 / eu and repealing directives 2004 / 8 / ec and 2006 / 32 / ec .


### the lack of transparent rules and coordination between the different authorisation bodies has been shown to hinder the deployment of energy from renewable sources . the establishment of a single administrative contact point integrating or coordinating all permit - granting processes should reduce complexity and increase efficiency and transparency . administrative approval procedures should be streamlined with transparent timetables for installations using energy from renewable sources . planning rules and guidelines should be adapted to take into consideration cost - effective and environmentally beneficial renewable heating and cooling and electricity equipment . this directive , in particular the provisions on the organisation and duration of the permit granting process , should apply without prejudice to international and union law , including provisions to protect the environment and human health . ### the lack of transparent rules and coordination between the different authorisation bodies has been shown to hinder the deployment of energy from renewable sources . the establishment of a single administrative contact point integrating or coordinating all permit - granting processes should reduce complexity and increase efficiency and transparency , including for renewable self - consumers and renewable energy communities . administrative approval procedures should be streamlined with transparent timetables for installations using energy from renewable sources . planning rules and guidelines should be adapted to take into consideration cost - effective and environmentally beneficial renewable heating and cooling and electricity equipment . this directive , in particular the provisions on the organisation and duration of the permit granting process , should apply without prejudice to international and union law , including provisions to protect the environment and human health .


### the opportunities for establishing economic growth through innovation and a sustainable competitive energy policy have been recognised . production of energy from renewable sources often depends on local or regional smes . the opportunities for growth and employment that investments in regional and local production of energy from renewable sources bring about in the member states and their regions are important . the commission and the member states should therefore support national and regional development measures in those areas , encourage the exchange of best practices in production of energy from renewable sources between local and regional development initiatives and promote the use of cohesion policy funding in this area . ### the opportunities for establishing economic growth through innovation and a sustainable competitive energy policy have been recognised . production of energy from renewable sources often depends on local or regional smes . the opportunities for local business development , sustainable growth and high - quality employment that investments in regional and local production of energy from renewable sources bring about in the member states and their regions are important . the commission and the member states should therefore foster and support national and regional development measures in those areas , encourage the exchange of best practices in production of energy from renewable sources between local and regional development initiatives and enhance the provision of technical assistance and training programmes , in order to strengthen regulatory , technical and financial expertise on the ground and foster knowledge on available funding possibilities , including a more targeted use of eu funds , such as the use of cohesion policy funding in this area .


### 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 could thus serve as examples of the application of innovative energy technologies for the union and become 100% renewable territories . 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 .


### it is appropriate to allow for the development of decentralised renewable energy technologies under non - discriminatory conditions and without hampering the financing of infrastructure investments . the move towards decentralised energy production has many benefits , including the utilisation of local energy sources , increased local security of energy supply , shorter transport distances and reduced energy transmission losses . such decentralisation also fosters community development and cohesion by providing income sources and creating jobs locally . ### it is appropriate to allow for the development of decentralised renewable energy technologies and storage under non - discriminatory conditions and without hampering the financing of infrastructure investments . the move towards decentralised energy production has many benefits , including the utilisation of local energy sources , increased local security of energy supply , shorter transport distances and reduced energy transmission losses . such decentralisation also fosters community development and cohesion by providing income sources and creating jobs locally .


### local citizen participation in renewable energy projects through renewable energy communities has resulted in substantial added value in terms of local acceptance of renewable energy and access to additional private capital . this local involvement will be all the more crucial in a context of increasing renewable energy capacity in the future . ### local citizen and local authorities´ participation in renewable energy projects through renewable energy communities has resulted in substantial added value in terms of local acceptance of renewable energy and access to additional private capital which results in local investment , more choice for consumers , encouragement of participation by households that might not otherwise be able to , advancement of energy efficiency at household level , and helping to fight energy poverty through reduced consumption and lower supply tariffs . this local involvement will be all the more crucial in a context of increasing renewable energy capacity in the future .


### several member states have implemented measures in the heating and cooling sector to reach their 2020 renewable energy target . however , in the absence of binding national targets post - 2020 , the remaining national incentives may not be sufficient to reach the long - term decarbonisation goals for 2030 and 2050 . in order to be in line with such goals , reinforce investor certainty and foster the development of a union - wide renewable heating and cooling market , while respecting the energy efficiency first principle , it is appropriate to encourage the effort of member states in the supply of renewable heating and cooling to contribute to the progressive increase of the share of renewable energy . given the fragmented nature of some heating and cooling markets , it is of utmost importance to ensure flexibility in designing such an effort . it is also important to ensure that a potential uptake of renewable heating and cooling does not have detrimental environmental side - effects . ### several member states have implemented measures in the heating and cooling sector to reach their 2020 renewable energy target . in order to be in line with and in order to reach the long - term decarbonisation goals for 2030 and 2050 , to reinforce investor certainty and to foster the development of a union - wide renewable heating and cooling market , while respecting the energy efficiency first principle , it is appropriate to encourage the effort of member states in the supply of renewable heating and cooling to contribute to the progressive increase of the share of renewable energy . given the fragmented nature of some heating and cooling markets , it is of utmost importance to ensure flexibility in designing such an effort . it is also important to ensure that a potential uptake of renewable heating and cooling does not have detrimental environmental side - effects .


### the potential synergies between an effort to increase the uptake of renewable heating and cooling and the existing schemes under directives 2010 / 31 / eu and 2012 / 27 / eu should be emphasised . member states should , to the extent possible , have the possibility to use existing administrative structures to implement such effort , in order to mitigate the administrative burden . ### the use of efficient renewable - based heating or cooling systems should go hand in hand with a deep renovation of buildings , thereby reducing energy demand and costs for consumers and contributing to alleviating energy poverty as well as creating qualified local jobs . to this end , the potential synergies between the effort to increase the uptake of renewable heating and cooling and the existing schemes under directives 2010 / 31 / eu and 2012 / 27 / eu should be emphasised . member states should , to the extent possible , have the possibility to use existing administrative structures to implement such effort , in order to mitigate the administrative burden .


### advanced biofuels and other biofuels and biogas produced from feedstock listed in annex ix , renewable liquid and gaseous transport fuels of non - biological origin , and renewable electricity in transport can contribute to low carbon emissions , stimulating the decarbonisation of the union transport sector in a cost - effective manner , and improving inter alia energy diversification in the transport sector while promoting innovation , growth and jobs in the union economy and reducing reliance on energy imports . the incorporation obligation on fuels suppliers should encourage continuous development of advanced fuels , including biofuels , and it is important to ensure that the incorporation obligation also incentivises improvements in the greenhouse gas performance of the fuels supplied to meet it . the commission should assess the greenhouse gas performance , technical innovation and sustainability of those fuels . ### advanced biofuels and other biofuels and biogas produced from feedstock listed in annex ix , renewable liquid and gaseous transport fuels of non - biological origin , and renewable electricity in transport can contribute to low carbon emissions , stimulating the decarbonisation of the union transport sector in a cost - effective manner , and improving inter alia energy diversification in the transport sector while promoting innovation , growth and jobs in the union economy and reducing reliance on energy imports . however , non - food feedstocks can result in associated land use change emissions or other indirect emissions . in order to account for indirect emissions relating to the displacement of current uses for some of the feedstock , estimates should be included in the calculation of greenhouse gas emissions . it is possible that those estimates change as additional data become available or as the markets for those non - food feedstocks change over time . they should therefore be kept under regular review . the incorporation obligation on fuels suppliers should encourage continuous development of advanced fuels , including biofuels , and it is important to ensure that the incorporation obligation also incentivises improvements in the greenhouse gas performance of the fuels supplied to meet it . the commission should assess the greenhouse gas performance , technical innovation and sustainability of those fuels .


### feedstocks which have low indirect land use change impacts when used for biofuels , should be promoted for their contribution to the decarbonisation of the economy . especially feedstocks for advanced biofuels , for which technology is more innovative and less mature and therefore needs a higher level of support , should be included in an annex to this directive . in order to ensure that this annex is up to date with the latest technological developments while avoiding unintended negative effects , an evaluation should take place after the adoption of the directive in order to assess the possibility to extend the annex to new feedstocks . ### feedstocks which have low indirect land use change impacts when used for biofuels , should be promoted for their contribution to the decarbonisation of the economy . especially feedstocks for advanced biofuels , for which technology is more innovative and less mature and therefore needs a higher level of support , should be included in an annex to this directive . in order to ensure that this annex is up to date with the latest technological developments while avoiding unintended negative effects , it should be regularly evaluated .


### in order to exploit the full potential of biomass to contribute to the decarbonisation of the economy through its uses for materials and energy , the union and the member states should promote greater sustainable mobilisation of existing timber and agricultural resources and the development of new forestry and agriculture production systems . ### in order to exploit the full potential of biomass to contribute to the decarbonisation of the economy through its uses for materials and energy , the union and the member states should promote energy uses only from greater sustainable mobilisation of existing timber and agricultural resources and the development of new forestry and agriculture production systems provided that sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria are met .


### the production of agricultural raw material for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels , and the incentives for their use provided for in this directive , should not have effect of encouraging the destruction of biodiverse lands . such finite resources , recognised in various international instruments to be of value to all mankind , should be preserved . it is therefore necessary to provide sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions savings criteria ensuring that biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels qualify for the incentives only when it is guaranteed that the agricultural raw material does not originate in biodiverse areas or , in the case of areas designated for nature protection purposes or for the protection of rare , threatened or endangered ecosystems or species , the relevant competent authority demonstrates that the production of the agricultural raw material does not interfere with such purposes . forests should be considered as biodiverse according to the sustainibility criteria , where they are primary forests in accordance with the definition used by the food and agriculture organisation of the united nations in its global forest resource assessment , or where they are protected by national nature protection law . areas where the collection of non - wood forest products occurs should be considered to be biodiverse forests , provided the human impact is small . other types of forests as defined by the fao , such as modified natural forests , semi - natural forests and plantations , should not be considered as primary forests . having regard , furthermore , to the highly biodiverse nature of certain grasslands , both temperate and tropical , including highly biodiverse savannahs , steppes , scrublands and prairies , biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels made from agricultural raw materials originating in such lands should not qualify for the incentives provided for by this directive . the commission should establish appropriate criteria to define such highly biodiverse grasslands in accordance with the best available scientific evidence and relevant international standards . ### the production of agricultural raw material for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels , and the incentives for their use provided for in this directive , should not have , or encourage , a detrimental effect on biodiversity within or outside the union . such finite resources , recognised in various international instruments to be of value to all mankind , should be preserved . it is therefore necessary to provide sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions savings criteria ensuring that biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels qualify for the incentives only when it is guaranteed that the agricultural raw material does not originate in biodiverse areas or , in the case of areas designated for nature protection purposes or for the protection of rare , threatened or endangered ecosystems or species , the relevant competent authority demonstrates that the production of the agricultural raw material does not interfere with such purposes . forests should be considered as biodiverse according to the sustainibility criteria , where they are primary forests in accordance with the definition used by the food and agriculture organisation of the united nations in its global forest resource assessment , or where they are protected by national nature protection law . areas where the collection of non - wood forest products occurs should be considered to be biodiverse forests , provided the human impact is small . other types of forests as defined by the fao , such as modified natural forests , semi - natural forests and plantations , should not be considered as primary forests . however , biodiversity , as well as the quality , health , viability and vitality of those forests should be guaranteed . having regard , furthermore , to the highly biodiverse nature of certain grasslands , both temperate and tropical , including highly biodiverse savannahs , steppes , scrublands and prairies , biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels made from agricultural raw materials originating in such lands should not qualify for the incentives provided for by this directive . the commission should establish appropriate criteria to define such highly biodiverse grasslands in accordance with the best available scientific evidence and relevant international standards .


### agricultural feedstock for the production of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels should not be produced on peatland as the cultivation of feedstock on peatland would result in significant carbon stock loss if the land was further drained for that purpose while the absence of such drainage cannot be easily verified . ### agricultural feedstock for the production of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels should not be produced on peatland or wetland where this would involve drainage of soil as the cultivation of feedstock on peatland or wetland would result in significant carbon stock loss if the land was further drained for that purpose .


### agricultural feedstock for the production of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels should not be produced on peatland as the cultivation of feedstock on peatland would result in significant carbon stock loss if the land was further drained for that purpose while the absence of such drainage cannot be easily verified . ### agricultural feedstock for the production of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels should not be produced on peatland or wetland as the cultivation of feedstock on peatland or wetland would result in significant carbon stock loss if the land was further drained for that purpose while the absence of such drainage cannot be easily verified .


### to ensure that , despite the growing demand for forest biomass , harvesting is carried out in a sustainable manner in forests where regeneration is ensured , that special attention is given to areas explicitly designated for the protection of biodiversity , landscapes and specific natural elements , that biodiversity resources are preserved and that carbon stocks are tracked , woody raw material should come only from forests that are harvested in accordance with the principles of sustainable forest management developed under international forest processes such as forest europe and are implemented through national laws or the best management practices at the forest holding level . operators should take the appropriate steps in order to minimise the risk of using unsustainable forest biomass for the production of bioenergy . to that end , operators should put in place a risk - based approach . in this context , it is appropriate for the commission to develop operational guidance on the verification of compliance with the risk based approach , following the consultation of the energy union governance committee , and the standing forestry committee established by council decision 89 / 367 / eec24 . ### to ensure that , despite the growing demand for forest biomass , harvesting is carried out in a sustainable manner in forests where regeneration is ensured , that special attention is given to areas explicitly designated for the protection of biodiversity , landscapes and specific natural elements , that biodiversity resources are preserved and that carbon stocks are tracked , woody raw material should come only from forests that are harvested in accordance with the principles of sustainable forest management developed under international forest processes such as forest europe and are implemented through national laws or the best management practices at the supply base level . operators should ensure that measures are taken to avoid or limit negative consequences of harvesting on the environment . to that end , operators should put in place a risk - based approach . in this context , it is appropriate for the commission to develop arrangements for implementing the requirements based on best practices in member states as well as operational guidance on the verification of compliance with the risk based approach , following the consultation of the energy union governance committee , and the standing forestry committee established by council decision 89 / 367 / eec24 .


### biomass fuels should be converted into electricity and heat in an efficient way in order to maximise energy security and greenhouse gas savings , as well as to limit emissions of air pollutants and minimise the pressure on limited biomass resources . for this reason , public support to installations with a fuel capacity equal to or exceeding [ 20 ] mw , if needed , should only be given to highly efficient combined power and heat installations as defined article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu . existing support schemes for biomass - based electricity should however be allowed until their due end date for all biomass installations . in addition electricity produced from biomass in new installations with a fuel capacity equal to or exceeding [ 20 ] mw should only count towards renewable energy targets and obligations in the case of highly efficient combined power and heat installations . in accordance with state aid rules , member states should however be allowed to grant public support for the production of renewables to installations , and count the electricity they produce towards renewable energy targets and obligations , in order to avoid an increased reliance on fossil fuels with higher climate and environmental impacts where , after exhausting all technical and economic possibilities to install highly efficient combined heat and power biomass installations , member states would face a substantiated risk to security of supply of electricity . ### biomass fuels should be converted into electricity and heat in an efficient way in order to maximise energy security and greenhouse gas savings , as well as to limit emissions of air pollutants and minimise the pressure on limited biomass resources . for this reason , public support to installations with an installed electrical capacity equal to or exceeding [ 20 ] mw , if needed , should only be given to highly efficient combined power and heat installations as defined article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu or produced in installations which have been converted from solid fossil fuels fired plants . existing support schemes for biomass - based electricity should however be allowed until their due end date for all biomass installations . in addition electricity produced from biomass in new installations with an installed electrical capacity equal to or exceeding [ 20 ] mw should only count towards renewable energy targets and obligations in the case of highly efficient combined power and heat installations or if produced in installations which have been converted from solid fossil fuels fired plants . in accordance with state aid rules , member states should however be allowed to grant public support for the production of renewables to installations , and count the electricity they produce towards renewable energy targets and obligations , in order to avoid an increased reliance on fossil fuels with higher climate and environmental impacts where , after exhausting all technical and economic possibilities to install highly efficient combined heat and power biomass installations , member states would face a substantiated risk to security of supply of electricity . in particular , support for installations producing renewable energy from biomass in outermost regions heavily dependent on energy imports should be strengthened , provided that sustainability criteria are met for the production of such renewable energy , adapted to the specific features of those regions .


### voluntary schemes play an increasingly important role in providing evidence of compliance with the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels . it is therefore appropriate for the commission to require voluntary schemes , including those already recognised by the commission , to report regularly on their activity . such reports should be made public in order to increase transparency and to improve supervision by the commission . furthermore , such reporting would provide the necessary information for the commission to report on the operation of the voluntary schemes with a view to identifying best practice and submitting , if appropriate , a proposal to further promote such best practice . ### voluntary schemes can play an important role in providing evidence of compliance with the minimum sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels . it is therefore appropriate for the commission to require voluntary schemes , including those already recognised by the commission , to report regularly on their activity . such reports should be made public in order to increase transparency and to improve supervision by the commission . furthermore , such reporting would provide the necessary information for the commission to report on the operation of the voluntary schemes with a view to identifying best practice and submitting , if appropriate , a proposal to further promote such best practice .


### in order to avoid a disproportionate administrative burden , a list of default values should be laid down for common biofuel , bioliquid and biomass fuel production pathways and that list should be updated and expanded when further reliable data is available . economic operators should always be entitled to claim the level of greenhouse gas emission saving for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels established by that list . where the default value for greenhouse gas emission saving from a production pathway lies below the required minimum level of greenhouse gas emission saving , producers wishing to demonstrate their compliance with this minimum level should be required to show that actual emissions from their production process are lower than those that were assumed in the calculation of the default values . ### in order to avoid a disproportionate administrative burden , a list of default values should be laid down for common biofuel , bioliquid and biomass fuel production pathways and that list should be updated and expanded when further reliable data is available . economic operators should always be entitled to claim the level of direct greenhouse gas emission saving for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels established by that list . where the default value for direct greenhouse gas emission saving from a production pathway lies below the required minimum level of greenhouse gas emission saving , producers wishing to demonstrate their compliance with this minimum level should be required to show that actual emissions from their production process are lower than those that were assumed in the calculation of the default values .


### this directive establishes a common framework for the promotion of energy from renewable sources . it sets a binding union target for the overall share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2030 . it also lays down rules on financial support to electricity produced from renewable sources , self - consumption of renewable electricity , and renewable energy use in the heating and cooling and transport sectors , regional cooperation between member states and with third countries , guarantees of origin , administrative procedures and information and training . it establishes sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels . ### this directive establishes a common framework for the promotion of energy from renewable sources . it sets mandatory national and union targets for the overall share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2030 . it also lays down rules on financial support to electricity produced from renewable sources , self - consumption of renewable electricity , renewable energy communities , and renewable energy use in the heating and cooling and transport sectors , cross - border and regional cooperation between member states and with third countries via statistical transfers between member states , joint projects , joint and open tenders , joint support schemes and renewable projects of energy union interests as defined in the [ governance regulation ] , guarantees of origin , administrative procedures and information and training , and access to the electricity and gas grid and heating and cooling infrastructure for energy from renewable sources . it establishes sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels .


### this directive establishes a common framework for the promotion of energy from renewable sources . it sets a binding union target for the overall share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2030 . it also lays down rules on financial support to electricity produced from renewable sources , self - consumption of renewable electricity , and renewable energy use in the heating and cooling and transport sectors , regional cooperation between member states and with third countries , guarantees of origin , administrative procedures and information and training . it establishes sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels . ### this directive establishes a common framework for the promotion of energy from renewable sources . it sets mandatory union and national targets for the overall share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2030 . it also lays down rules on financial support to electricity produced from renewable sources , self - consumption of renewable electricity , and renewable energy use in the heating and cooling and transport sectors , regional cooperation between member states and with third countries , guarantees of origin , administrative procedures , and information and training . it establishes sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels .


### ' support scheme ' means any instrument , scheme or mechanism applied by a member state or a group of member states , that promotes the use of energy from renewable sources by reducing the cost of that energy , increasing the price at which it can be sold , or increasing , by means of a renewable energy obligation or otherwise , the volume of such energy purchased . this includes , but is not restricted to , investment aid , tax exemptions or reductions , tax refunds , renewable energy obligation support schemes including those using green certificates , and direct price support schemes including feed - in tariffs and premium payments ; ### ' support scheme ' means any instrument , scheme or mechanism applied by a member state or a group of member states , that promotes the use of energy from renewable sources by reducing the cost of that energy , increasing the price at which it can be sold . this includes , but is not restricted to , investment aid , tax exemptions or reductions , tax refunds , renewable energy obligation support schemes including those using green certificates , and direct price support schemes including feed - in tariffs and sliding premium payments ;


### ‘ low indirect land - use change - risk biofuels and bioliquids’ means biofuels and bioliquids , the feedstocks of which were produced within schemes which reduce the displacement of production for purposes other than for making biofuels and bioliquids and which were produced in accordance with the sustainability criteria for biofuels and bioliquids set out in article 26 ; . ### ‘ low indirect land - use change - risk biofuels and bioliquids’ means biofuels and bioliquids , the feedstocks of which were produced on unused , marginal land while improving its carbon capture within schemes which reduce the displacement of production for purposes other than for making biofuels and bioliquids , including for high protein feed products , and which were produced in accordance with the sustainability criteria for biofuels and bioliquids set out in article 26 ;


### ‘ repowering’ means renewing power plants producing renewable energy , including the full or partial replacement of installations or operation systems and equipment , in order to replace capacity or increase efficiency ; ### ' repowering ' means renewing power plants producing renewable energy , including the full or partial replacement of installations or operation systems and equipment , in order to increase or replace capacity and / or increase efficiency ;


### ‘ waste heat or cold’ means heat or cold which is generated as by - product in industrial or power generation installations and which would be dissipated unused in air or water without access to a district heating or cooling system ; ### ' waste heat or cold ' means heat or cold which is generated as by - product in industrial installations or in tertiary sector and which would be dissipated unused in air or water without access to a district or other dedicated heating or cooling recovery system ;


### ' waste heat or cold ' means heat or cold which is generated as by - product in industrial or power generation installations and which would be dissipated unused in air or water without access to a district heating or cooling system ; ### ' waste heat or cold ' means unavoidable heat or cold which is generated as by - product in industrial processes or from the tertiary sector , and which would be dissipated unused in air or water without access to a district heating or cooling system ;


### ‘ power purchase agreement’ means a contract under which a legal person agrees to purchase renewable electricity directly from an energy generator ; ### ´renewable power purchase agreement ' means a contract under which a legal or natural person agrees to purchase new additional renewable electricity directly from an energy generator and that does not benefit from a member state support scheme ;


### ‘ food and feed crops’ means starch - rich crops , sugars and oil crops produced on agricultural land as a main crop excluding residues , waste or ligno - cellulosic material ; ### ' food and feed crops ' means starch - rich crops , sugars and oil crops and other crops grown primarily for energy purposes on agricultural land as a main crop excluding residues and waste ;


### ' biowaste ' means biodegradable garden and park waste , food and kitchen waste from households , restaurants , caterers and retail premises , and comparable waste from the food processing industry ; ### ' bio - waste ' means bio - waste as defined in point of article 3 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec ;


### support schemes may be opened to cross - border participation through , inter alia , opened tenders , joint tenders , opened certificate schemes or joint support schemes . the allocation of renewable electricity benefiting from support under opened tenders , joint tenders or opened certificate schemes towards member states respective contributions shall be subject to a cooperation agreement setting out rules for the cross - border disbursement of funding , following the principle that energy should be counted towards the member state funding the installation . ### support schemes may be opened to cross - border participation through , inter alia , opened tenders , joint tenders , opened certificate schemes , or joint support schemes . the allocation of renewable electricity benefiting from support under opened tenders , joint tenders , opened certificate schemes towards member states respective contributions shall be subject to a cooperation agreement setting out rules for the cross - border scheme , including conditions for participation and disbursement of funding , following the principle that energy should be counted towards the member state funding the installation .


### without prejudice to adaptations necessary to comply with state aid rules , member states shall ensure that the level of , and the conditions attached to , the support granted to renewable energy projects are not revised in a way that negatively impacts the rights conferred thereunder and the economics of supported projects . ### member states shall ensure that the level of , and the conditions attached to , the support granted to renewable energy projects through a competitive bidding or through direct support remains intact throughout the lifetime of supported projects and are not revised in a way that negatively impacts their rights conferred thereunder and their economics . this shall apply to existing and new renewable projects .


### ambient heat energy captured by heat pumps shall be taken into account for the purposes of paragraph 1 provided that the final energy output significantly exceeds the primary energy input required to drive the heat pumps . the quantity of heat to be considered as energy from renewable sources for the purposes of this directive shall be calculated in accordance with the methodology laid down in annex vii . ### ambient heat and geothermal energy captured by heat pumps for the production of heating and cooling shall be taken into account for the purposes of paragraph 1 provided that the final energy output significantly exceeds the primary energy input required to drive the heat pumps . the quantity of heat or cold to be considered as energy from renewable sources for the purposes of this directive shall be calculated in accordance with the methodology laid down in annex vii .


### the application relates to a joint project that fulfils the criteria in points and of paragraph 2 and that will use the interconnector after it becomes operational , and to a quantity of electricity that is no greater than the quantity that will be exported to the union after the interconnector becomes operational . ### the application relates to a joint project that fulfils the criteria in points , and of paragraph 2 and that will use the interconnector after it becomes operational , and to a quantity of electricity that is no greater than the quantity that will be exported to the union after the interconnector becomes operational .


### include a written acknowledgement of points and by the third country in whose territory the installation is to become operational and the proportion or amount of electricity produced by the installation which will be used domestically by that third country . ### include a written acknowledgement of points , and of paragraph 2 by the third country in whose territory the installation is to become operational and the proportion or amount of electricity produced by the installation which will be used domestically by that third country .


### member states shall ensure that their competent authorities at national , regional and local level include provisions for the integration and deployment of renewable energy and the use of unavoidable waste heat or cold when planning , designing , building and renovating urban infrastructure , industrial or residential areas and energy infrastructure , including electricity , district heating and cooling , natural gas and alternative fuel networks . ### member states shall ensure that their competent authorities at national , regional and local level include provisions for the integration and deployment of renewable energy including for early spatial planning , for needs and adequacy assessments taking account of the energy efficiency first principle and demand response , for renewable self - consumers and renewable energy communities , and the use of unavoidable waste heat or cold when planning , designing , building and renovating urban infrastructure , industrial , commercial or residential areas and energy infrastructure , including electricity , district heating and cooling , natural gas and alternative fuel networks . member states shall , in particular , encourage local and regional administrative bodies to include heating and cooling from renewable energy sources in the planning of city infrastructure , where appropriate .


### member states shall carry out an assessment of their potential of renewable energy sources and of the use of waste heat and cold for heating and cooling . that assessment shall be included in the second comprehensive assessment required pursuant to article 14 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu for the first time by 31 december 2020 and in the updates of the comprehensive assessments thereafter . ### member states shall carry out an assessment of their potential of renewable energy sources including spatial analysis of suitable areas , ensuring a far - sighted and sustainable renewable deployment as well as the use of unavoidable waste heat and cold for heating and cooling . that assessment shall be included in the second comprehensive assessment required pursuant to article 14 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu for the first time by 31 december 2020 and in the updates of the comprehensive assessments thereafter


### demonstration projects and installations with an electricity capacity of less than 50 kw shall be allowed to connect to the grid following a notification to the distribution system operator . ### demonstration projects and installations with an electricity capacity of less than 50 kw shall be allowed to connect to the grid within two months after the connection request addressed to the distribution system operator . this request shall be handled by the single administrative contact point once it is established , in accordance with article 16 .


### member states shall ensure that information on support measures is made available to all relevant actors , such as consumers , builders , installers , architects , and suppliers of heating , cooling and electricity equipment and systems and of vehicles compatible with the use of energy from renewable sources . ### member states shall ensure that information on support measures is made available to all relevant actors , such as consumers , in particular low - income , vulnerable consumers , renewable self - consumers , renewable energy communities builders , installers , architects , and suppliers of heating , cooling and electricity equipment and systems and of vehicles compatible with the use of energy from renewable sources .


### member states , with the participation of local and regional authorities , shall develop suitable information , awareness - raising , guidance or training programmes in order to inform citizens of the benefits and practicalities of developing and using energy from renewable sources . ### member states , with the participation of local and regional authorities , shall develop suitable accessible information , awareness - raising , guidance or training programmes in order to inform citizens , of the technological , environmental and economic benefits and practicalities of developing and using energy from renewable sources , including through renewables self - consumption and participation in renewable energy communities


### where relevant , member states shall assess the need to extend existing gas network infrastructure to facilitate the integration of gas from renewable energy sources . ### member states shall assess the need to extend existing gas network infrastructure to facilitate the integration of gas from renewable energy sources . transmission system operators and distribution system operators shall be responsible for guaranteeing a smooth functioning of the gas network infrastructure , including its maintenance and regular cleaning .


### member states shall ensure that renewable self - consumers , individually or through aggregators : ### member states shall ensure that household customers are entitled to become renewable self - consumers , both individually and collectively . member states shall ensure that renewable self - consumers :


### in order to facilitate the penetration of renewable energy in the heating and cooling sector , each member state shall endeavour to increase the share of renewable energy supplied for heating and cooling by at least 1 percentage point every year , expressed in terms of national share of final energy consumption and calculated according to the methodology set out in article 7 . ### in order to facilitate the penetration of renewable energy in the heating and cooling sector , each member state shall endeavour to increase the share of renewable energy supplied for heating and cooling , in particular by supporting innovative technologies such as heat pumps , geothermal and solar thermal technologies , by at least 1 percentage point every year , expressed in terms of national share of final energy consumption and calculated according to the methodology set out in article 7 .


### member states shall put in place a database enabling tracing of transport fuels that are eligible for counting towards the numerator set out in paragraph 1 , and require the relevant economic operators to enter information on the transactions made and the sustainability characteristics of the eligible fuels , including their life cycle greenhouse gas emissions , starting from their point of production to the fuel supplier that places the fuel on the market . ### the commission shall put in place an eu - database enabling tracing of transport fuels , including electricity , that are eligible for counting towards the numerator set out in point of paragraph 1 . member states shall require fuel suppliers to enter in the database the total annual quantities of energy they supply to the transport sector as defined in denominator in point of paragraph 1 . suppliers of renewable energy in transport as defined in the numerator in point of paragraph 1 shall be required to enter information on the transactions made and the sustainability characteristics of the eligible fuels , including their full life cycle greenhouse gas emissions , starting from the source of the feedstocks to the end - of - life phase of the fuel .


### member states shall report on the aggregated information from the national databases , including fuels ' life cycle greenhouse gas emissions , in accordance with annex vii of regulation [ governance ] . ### member states shall report on the aggregated information , including fuels ' life cycle greenhouse gas emissions , in accordance with annex vii of regulation [ governance ] . the commission shall publish , on an annual basis , aggregated information from the database .


### member states shall report on the aggregated information from the national databases , including fuels ' life cycle greenhouse gas emissions , in accordance with annex vii of regulation [ governance ] . ### the commission shall publish , on an annual basis , aggregated information from the database , including fuels ' life cycle greenhouse gas emissions .


### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 32 to further specify the methodology referred to in paragraph 3 of this article to determine the share of biofuel resulting from biomass being processed with fossil fuels in a common process , to specify the methodology for assessing greenhouse gas emission savings from renewable liquid and gaseous transport fuels of non - biological origin and waste - based fossil fuels and to determine minimum greenhouse gas emission savings required for these fuels for the purpose of paragraph 1 . ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 32 to further specify the methodology referred to in paragraph 3 of this article to determine the share of biofuel resulting from biomass being processed with fossil fuels in a common process , to specify the methodology for assessing greenhouse gas emission savings from renewable liquid and gaseous transport fuels of non - biological origin and low carbon fossil fuels , which are generated from gases effluents produced as an unavoidable and not intentional consequence of the manufacturing or production of products that is intended for commercial use and / or for sale , and to determine minimum greenhouse gas emission savings required for these fuels for the purpose of paragraph 1 of this article .


### by 31 december 2025 , in the context of the biennial assessment of progress made pursuant to regulation [ governance ] , the commission shall assess whether the obligation laid down in paragraph 1 effectively stimulates innovation and promotes greenhouse gas savings in the transport sector , and whether the applicable greenhouse gas savings requirements for biofuels and biogas are appropriate . the commission shall , if appropriate , present a proposal to modify the obligation laid down in paragraph 1 . ### by 31 december 2025 , in the context of the biennial assessment of progress made pursuant to regulation [ governance ] , the commission shall assess whether the obligation laid down in paragraph 1 effectively stimulates innovation and ensures greenhouse gas savings in the transport sector , and whether the applicable greenhouse gas savings requirements for biofuels and biogas are appropriate . the commission shall , if appropriate , present a proposal to modify the obligation laid down in paragraph 1 .


### by 31 december 2025 , in the context of the biennial assessment of progress made pursuant to regulation [ governance ] , the commission shall assess whether the obligation laid down in paragraph 1 effectively stimulates innovation and promotes greenhouse gas savings in the transport sector , and whether the applicable greenhouse gas savings requirements for biofuels and biogas are appropriate . the commission shall , if appropriate , present a proposal to modify the obligation laid down in paragraph 1 . ### by 31 december 2025 , unless the latest technological developments or scientific evidence require an earlier adjustment of the obligation laid down in paragraph 1 of this article , in the context of the biennial assessment of progress made pursuant to regulation [ governance ] , the commission shall assess whether the obligation effectively stimulates innovation and promotes greenhouse gas savings in the transport sector , and whether the applicable greenhouse gas savings requirements for biofuels and biogas are appropriate . the assessment shall also analyse if the provisions of this article effectively avoid double accounting of renewable energy . the commission shall , if appropriate , present a proposal to modify the obligation laid down in paragraph 1 of this article .


### energy from biofuels bioliquids and biomass fuels shall be taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of this paragraph only if they fulfil the sustainability criteria set out in paragraphs 2 to 6 and the greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria set out in paragraph 7&#160 ; : ### irrespective of whether the raw materials were cultivated inside or outside the territory of the union , energy from biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels shall be taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of this paragraph only if they fulfil the sustainability criteria set out in paragraphs 2 to 6 and the greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria set out in paragraph 7 :


### however , biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels produced from waste and residues , other than agricultural , aquaculture , fisheries and forestry residues , need only fulfil the greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria set out in paragraph 7 in order to be taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of this paragraph . this provision shall also apply to waste and residues that are first processed into a product before being further processed into biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels . ### biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels produced from waste and residues , other than agricultural , aquaculture , fisheries and forestry residues , need only fulfil the greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria set out in paragraph 7 in order to be taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of this paragraph . however , their production shall be in line with the principle of the waste hierarchy as laid down in directive 2008 / 98 / ec and shall avoid significant distortive effects on markets for products , wastes or residues . this provision shall also apply to waste and residues that are first processed into a product before being further processed into biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels .


### biomass fuels shall have to fulfil the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria set out in paragraphs 2 to 7 only if used in installations producing electricity , heating and cooling or fuels with a fuel capacity equal to or exceeding 20 mw in case of solid biomass fuels and with an electrical capacity equal to or exceeding 0 . 5 mw in case of gaseous biomass fuels . member states may apply the sustainability and greenhouse gas emission saving criteria to installations with lower fuel capacity . ### biomass fuels shall have to fulfil the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria set out in paragraphs 2 to 7 only if used in installations producing electricity , heating and cooling or fuels with a total rated thermal input equal to or exceeding 20 mw in case of solid biomass fuels and with a total rated thermal input capacity equal to or exceeding 2 mw in case of gaseous biomass fuels . member states may apply the sustainability and greenhouse gas emission saving criteria to installations with lower fuel capacity .


### non - natural , namely grassland that would cease to be grassland in the absence of human intervention and which is species - rich and not degraded and has been identified as being highly biodiverse by the relevant competent authority , unless evidence is provided that the harvesting of the raw material is necessary to preserve its status as highly biodiverse grassland . ### non - natural , namely grassland that would cease to be grassland in the absence of human intervention and which is species - rich and not degraded or has been identified as being highly biodiverse by the relevant competent authority , unless evidence is provided that the harvesting of the raw material is necessary to preserve its status as highly biodiverse grassland .


### biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels produced from forest biomass taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of paragraph 1 shall meet the following requirements to minimise the risk of using unsustainable forest biomass production : the country in which forest biomass was harvested has national and / or sub - national laws applicable in the area of harvest as well as monitoring and enforcement systems in place ensuring that : harvesting is carried out in accordance to the conditions of the harvesting permit within legally gazetted boundaries ; ii ) forest regeneration of harvested areas takes place ; iii ) areas of high conservation value , including wetlands and peatlands , are protected ; iv ) the impacts of forest harvesting on soil quality and biodiversity are minimised ; and v ) harvesting does not exceed the long - term production capacity of the forest ; when evidence referred to in the first subparagraph is not available , the biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels produced from forest biomass shall be taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of paragraph 1 if management systems are in place at forest holding level to ensure that : the forest biomass has been harvested according to a legal permit ; ii ) forest regeneration of harvested areas takes place ; iii ) areas of high conservation value , including peatlands and wetlands , are identified and protected ; iv ) impacts of forest harvesting on soil quality and biodiversity are minimised ; v ) harvesting does not exceed the long - term production capacity of the forest . ### biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels produced from forest biomass taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of paragraph 1 shall meet the following requirements to minimise the risk of using unsustainable forest biomass production : the country in which forest biomass was harvested has national and / or sub - national laws applicable in the area of harvest as well as monitoring and enforcement systems in place ensuring that : harvesting is carried out in accordance to the conditions of the harvesting permit or equivalent proof of the legal right to harvest within the national or regional legally gazetted boundaries ; ii ) forest regeneration of harvested areas takes place ; iii ) areas designated , by international or national law or by the relevant competent authority , to promote the maintenance of biodiversity or for nature conservation purposes , including in wetlands and peatlands , are protected ; iv ) harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity with the aim of minimising negative impacts ; and v ) harvesting maintains or improves the long - term production capacity of the forest at national or regional level ; b ) when evidence referred to in the first subparagraph is not available , the biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels produced from forest biomass shall be taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of paragraph 1 if additional information of legality and forest management practices are provided at the supply base level to ensure that : harvesting is carried out in accordance with the conditions of the harvesting permit procedure or equivalent national or regional proof of the legal right to harvest ; ii ) forest regeneration of harvested areas takes place ; iii ) areas designated , by international or national law or by the relevant competent authority , to promote the maintenance of biodiversity or for nature conservation purposes , including in wetlands and peatlands , are protected ; iv ) harvesting is carried out considering maintenance of soil quality and biodiversity ; including surrounding areas provided that they are affected by the harvesting activities ; v ) harvesting maintains or improves long - term production capacity of the forest at national or regional level ; and vi ) environmental and nature regulations or measures are in place and in line with the relevant union environmental and nature standards .


### the commission may establish the operational evidence for demonstrating compliance with the requirements set out in paragraphs 5 and 6 , by means of implementing acts adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 31 . ### by 1 january 2021 , the commission shall establish the operational evidence for demonstrating compliance with the requirements set out in paragraphs 5 and 6 , by means of implementing acts adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 31 .


### electricity from biomass fuels produced in installations with a fuel capacity equal to or exceeding 20 mw shall be taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of paragraph 1 only if it is produced applying high efficient cogeneration technology as defined under article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu . for the purposes of points and of paragraph 1 , this provision shall only apply to installations starting operation after [ 3 years from date of adoption of this directive ] . for the purposes of point of paragraph 1 , this provision is without prejudice to public support provided under schemes approved by [ 3 years after date of adoption of this directive ] . ### electricity from biomass fuels produced in installations with an installed electrical capacity equal to or exceeding 20 mw shall be taken into account for the purposes referred to in points , and of paragraph 1 of this article only if it is produced applying high efficient cogeneration technology as defined under article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu or produced in installations which have been converted from solid fossil fuels fired plants . for the purposes of points and of paragraph 1 of this article , this provision shall only apply to installations starting operation after [ 3 years from date of adoption of this directive ] . for the purposes of point of paragraph 1 of this article , this provision is without prejudice to public support provided under schemes approved by [ 3 years after date of adoption of this directive ] .


### allows consignments of raw material or biofuels , bioliquids or biomass fuels with differing sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving characteristics to be mixed for instance in a container , processing or logistical facility , transmission and distribution infrastructure or site ; ### allows consignments of raw material or biofuels , &#160 ; bioliquids or biomass fuels with differing sustainability&#160 ; and greenhouse gas emissions saving&#160 ; characteristics to be mixed&#160 ; for instance in a container , processing or logistical facility , transmission and distribution infrastructure or site , provided that each consignment meets the requirements laid down in article 26 in its own right and that suitable systems are in place to monitor and measure the compliance of the individual consignments ;


### member states shall take measures to ensure that economic operators submit reliable information regarding the compliance with the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria set out in article 26 to and make available to the member state , on request , the data that were used to develop the information . member states shall require economic operators to arrange for an adequate standard of independent auditing of the information submitted , and to provide evidence that this has been done . the auditing shall verify that the systems used by economic operators are accurate , reliable and protected against fraud . it shall evaluate the frequency and methodology of sampling and the robustness of the data . ### member states shall take measures to ensure that economic operators submit reliable information regarding the compliance with the sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria set out in article 26 to and make available to the member state , on request , the data that were used to develop the information . member states shall require economic operators to arrange for an adequate standard of independent auditing of the information submitted , and to provide evidence that this has been done . the auditing shall verify that the systems used by economic operators are accurate , reliable and protected against fraud including verification ensuring that materials are not intentionally modified or discarded so that the consignment or part thereof could become a waste or residue under article 26 to . it shall evaluate the frequency and methodology of sampling and the robustness of the data .


### the obligations laid down in this paragraph shall apply whether the biofuels , bioliquids , and biomass fuels are produced within the union or imported . ### the obligations laid down in this paragraph shall apply whether the biofuels , bioliquids , and biomass fuels are produced within the union or imported . the information on geographic origin of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels shall be made available to consumers .


### member states may submit to the commission reports including information on the typical greenhouse gas emissions from cultivation of agricultural raw materials of those areas on their territory classified as level 2 in the nomenclature of territorial units for statistics or as a more disaggregated nuts level in accordance with regulation no 1059 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council . the reports shall be accompanied by a description of the method and data sources used to calculate the level of emissions . that method shall take into account soil characteristics , climate and expected raw material yields . ### member states may submit to the commission reports including information on the typical greenhouse gas emissions from cultivation of agricultural and forestry raw materials of those areas on their territory classified as level 2 in the nomenclature of territorial units for statistics or as a more disaggregated nuts level in accordance with regulation no 1059 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council . the reports shall be accompanied by a description of the method and data sources used to calculate the level of emissions . that method shall take into account soil characteristics , climate and expected raw material yields .


### the commission shall monitor the origin of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels consumed in the union and the impact of their production , including impact as a result of displacement , on land use in the union and the main third countries of supply . such monitoring shall be based on member states ' integrated national energy and climate plans and corresponding progress reports required in articles 3 , 15 and 18 of regulation [ governance ] , and those of relevant third countries , intergovernmental organisations , scientific studies and any other relevant pieces of information . the commission shall also monitor the commodity price changes associated with the use of biomass for energy and any associated positive and negative effects on food security . ### the commission shall monitor the origin of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels consumed in the union and the impact of their production , including impact as a result of displacement , on land use in the union and the main third countries of supply . such monitoring shall be based on member states ' integrated national energy and climate plans and corresponding progress reports required in articles 3 , 15 and 18 of regulation [ governance ] , and those of relevant third countries , intergovernmental organisations , scientific studies , satellite - based data and any other relevant pieces of information . the commission shall also monitor the commodity price changes associated with the use of biomass for energy and any associated positive and negative effects on food security .


### the commission shall monitor the origin of biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels consumed in the union and the impact of their production , including impact as a result of displacement , on land use in the union and the main third countries of supply . such monitoring shall be based on member states ' integrated national energy and climate plans and corresponding progress reports required in articles 3 , 15 and 18 of regulation [ governance ] , , and those of relevant third countries , intergovernmental organisations , scientific studies and any other relevant pieces of information . the commission shall also monitor the commodity price changes associated with the use of biomass for energy and any associated positive and negative effects on food security . ### the commission shall monitor the origin of biofuels and bioliquids , and biomass fuels consumed in the union as well as the impact of the production of renewable energy from those and other sources , including impact as a result of displacement , on land use in the union and the third countries of supply . such monitoring shall be based on member states ' integrated national energy and climate plans and corresponding progress reports required in articles 3 , 15 and 18 of regulation [ governance ] , , and those of relevant third countries , intergovernmental organisations , scientific studies and any other relevant pieces of information . the commission shall also monitor the commodity price changes associated with the use of biomass for energy and any associated positive and negative effects on food security .


### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in articles 7 , 7 ; 19 , 19 , 25 and 28 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from 1st january 2021 . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in articles 7 , 7 ; 19 , 19 , 25 , 25 and 28 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from 1st january 2021 .


### saving = – e b / e f ) ### saving = – e b ) / e f


### bio - waste as defined in article 3 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec from private households subject to separate collection as defined in article 3 of that directive . ### bio - waste as defined in article 3 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec subject to separate collection as defined in article 3 of that directive .


### biomass fraction of industrial waste not fit for use in the food or feed chain , including material from retail and wholesale and the agro - food and fish and aquaculture industry , and excluding feedstocks listed in part b of this annex . ### biomass residues resulting from other renewable industrial production not fit for use in the food chain , feed chain or for reprocessing into non - food material . this includes material resulting from retail and wholesale and the bio - based chemical productions , agro - food and fish and aquaculture industry , excluding feedstocks listed in part b of this annex .


### horizontal principles as set out in article 3 of the treaty on the european union and in article 10 of the tfeu , including principles of subsidiarity and proportionality as set out in article 5 of the teu should be respected in the implementation of the funds , taking into account the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . member states should also respect the obligations of the un convention on the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure accessibility in line with its article 9 and in accordance with the union law harmonising accessibility requirements for products and services . member states and the commission should aim at eliminating inequalities and at promoting equality between men and women and integrating the gender perspective , as well as at combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation . the funds should not support actions that contribute to any form of segregation . the objectives of the funds should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the union ' s promotion of the aim of preserving , protecting and improving the quality of the environment as set out in article 11 and article 191 of the tfeu , taking into account the polluter pays principle . in order to protect the integrity of the internal market , operations benefitting undertakings shall comply with union state aid rules as set out in articles 107 and 108 of the tfeu . ### horizontal principles as set out in article 3 of the treaty on the european union and in article 10 of the tfeu , including principles of subsidiarity and proportionality as set out in article 5 of the teu should be respected in the implementation of the funds , taking into account the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . member states should also respect the obligations of the un convention on the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure accessibility in line with its article 9 and in accordance with the union law harmonising accessibility requirements for products and services . member states and the commission should aim at eliminating inequalities and at promoting equality between men and women and integrating the gender perspective , as well as at combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation . the funds should not support actions that contribute to any form of segregation or exclusion . the objectives of the funds should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the union ' s promotion of the aim of preserving , protecting and improving the quality of the environment and combating climate change as set out in article 11 and article 191 of the tfeu , taking into account the polluter pays principle . in order to protect the integrity of the internal market , operations benefitting undertakings shall comply with union state aid rules as set out in articles 107 and 108 of the tfeu .


### part of the budget of the union allocated to the funds should be implemented by the commission under shared management with member states within the meaning of regulation [ number of the new financial regulation ] of the european parliament and of the council12 . therefore , when implementing the funds under shared management , the commission and the member states should respect the principles referred to in the financial regulation , such as sound financial management , transparency and non - discrimination . _________________ 12 oj l [ … ] , [ … ] , p . [ … ] . ### part of the budget of the union allocated to the funds should be implemented by the commission under shared management with member states within the meaning of regulation [ number of the new financial regulation ] of the european parliament and of the council12 . therefore , when implementing the funds under shared management , the commission and the member states should respect the principles referred to in the financial regulation , such as sound financial management , transparency and non - discrimination . member states should refrain from adding rules that complicate the use of the funds for the beneficiary . _________________ 12 oj l [ … ] , [ … ] , p . [ … ] .


### the principle of partnership is a key feature in the implementation of the funds , building on the multi - level governance approach and ensuring the involvement of civil society and social partners . in order to provide continuity in the organisation of partnership , commission delegated regulation no 240 / 201413 should continue to apply . _________________ 13 commission delegated regulation no 240 / 2014 of 7 january 2014 on the european code of conduct on partnership in the framework of the european structural and investment funds . ### the principle of partnership is a key feature in the implementation of the funds , building on the multi - level governance approach and ensuring the involvement of competent regional and local authorities , relevant bodies representing civil society and non - governmental organisations and economic and social partners . in order to provide continuity in the organisation of partnership , commission delegated regulation no 240 / 201413 should continue to apply . _________________ 13 commission delegated regulation no 240 / 2014 of 7 january 2014 on the european code of conduct on partnership in the framework of the european structural and investment funds .


### at least once a year , the commission shall consult the organisations which represent the partners at union level on the implementation of programmes . ### at least once a year , the commission shall consult the organisations which represent the partners at union level on the implementation of programmes and shall report to the european parliament and the council on the outcome .


### the actions taken to involve the relevant partners referred to in article 6 in the preparation of the programme , and the role of those partners in the implementation , monitoring and evaluation of the programme ; ### the actions taken to involve the relevant partners referred to in article 6 in the preparation of the programme , the role of those partners in the implementation , monitoring and evaluation of the programme , and whether and how comments submitted by these partners have been taken into account in the preparation of the programme ;


### building the capacity of local actors to develop and implement operations ; ### building the capacity of local actors to develop and implement operations including fostering their project management capabilities ;


### at the initiative of a member state , the funds may support actions , which may concern previous and subsequent programming periods , necessary for the effective administration and use of those funds . ### at the initiative of a member state , the funds may support actions , which may concern previous and subsequent programming periods , necessary for the effective administration and use of those funds and for capacity building of partners referred to in article 6 .


### each monitoring committee shall adopt its rules of procedure . ### each monitoring committee shall adopt its rules of procedure taking into account the necessity for transparency .


### the member state shall determine the composition of the monitoring committee and shall ensure a balanced representation of the relevant member state authorities and intermediate bodies and of representatives of the partners referred to in article 6 . ### the member state shall determine the composition of the monitoring committee and shall ensure a balanced representation of the relevant member state authorities and intermediate bodies taking into account the need for gender balance and diversity and of representatives of the partners referred to in article 6 .


### the progress in administrative capacity building for public institutions and beneficiaries , where relevant . ### the progress in administrative capacity building for public institutions , partners and beneficiaries , where relevant .


### the values of output and result indicators for selected operations and values achieved by operations . ### the values of output and result indicators for selected operations and values achieved by operations , disaggregated by gender where applicable .


### the managing authority shall publish all the data transmitted to the commission on the website referred to in article 44 . ### the managing authority shall publish all the data transmitted to the commission on the website referred to in article 44 . where it fails to do so , the commission may disclose the data to individuals or organisations when requested .


### the managing authority shall carry out evaluations of the programme . each evaluation shall assess the programme ' s effectiveness , efficiency , relevance , coherence and eu added value with the aim to improve the quality of the design and implementation of programmes . ### the managing authority shall carry out evaluations of the programme . each evaluation shall assess the programme ' s effectiveness , efficiency , relevance , coherence and eu added value including gender equality with the aim to improve the quality of the design and implementation of programmes .


### the commission shall carry out a mid - term evaluation to examine the effectiveness , efficiency , relevance , coherence and eu added value of each fund by the end of 2024 . the commission may make use of all relevant information already available in accordance with article [ 128 ] of the financial regulation . ### the commission shall carry out a mid - term evaluation to examine the effectiveness , efficiency , relevance , coherence and eu added value including gender equality of each fund by the end of 2024 . the commission may make use of all relevant information already available in accordance with article [ 128 ] of the financial regulation .


### the managing authority shall ensure that , within six months of the programme ' s approval , there is a website where information on programmes under its responsibility is available , covering the programme ' s objectives , activities , available funding opportunities and achievements . ### the managing authority shall ensure that , within six months of the programme ' s approval , there is a website where information on programmes under its responsibility is available , covering the programme ' s objectives , activities , available funding opportunities , achievements and decisions and supporting documents of the monitoring committee .


### support from the funds to financial instruments invested in final recipients as well as any type of income generated by those investments , which are attributable to the support from the funds , may be used for differentiated treatment of investors operating under the market economy principle through an appropriate sharing of risks and profits . ### support from the funds to financial instruments invested in final recipients as well as any type of income generated by those investments , which are attributable to the support from the funds , may be used for differentiated treatment of investors operating under the market economy principle through an appropriate sharing of risks and profits taking into account the principle of sound financial management .


### member states shall ensure the quality and reliability of the monitoring system and of data on indicators . ### member states shall ensure the quality and reliability of the monitoring system and of data on indicators . they shall ensure that data is collected , where applicable , disaggregated by gender .


### the development of digital technologies and internet has transformed the distribution of and access to television and radio programmes . users increasingly expect to have access to television and radio programmes both live and on - demand , using traditional channels such as satellite or cable and also through online services . broadcasting organisations are therefore increasingly offering , in addition to their own broadcasts of television and radio programmes , online services ancillary to their broadcast , such as simulcasting and catch - up services . retransmission services operators , which aggregate broadcasts of television and radio programmes into packages and provide them to users simultaneously to the initial transmission of the broadcast , unaltered and unabridged , use various techniques of retransmission such as cable , satellite , digital terrestrial , closed circuit ip - based or mobile networks as well as the open internet . on the part of users , there is a growing demand for access to broadcasts of television and radio programmes not only originating in their member state but also in other member states of the union , including from members of linguistic minorities of the union as well as from persons who live in another member state than their member state of origin . ### the development of digital technologies and internet has transformed the distribution of and access to television and radio programmes . users increasingly expect to have access to television and radio programmes both live and on - demand , using traditional channels such as satellite or cable and also through online services . broadcasting organisations are therefore increasingly offering , in addition to their own broadcasts of television and radio programmes , online services , such as simulcasting and catch - up services . retransmission services operators , which aggregate broadcasts of television and radio programmes into packages and provide them to users unaltered , use various techniques of retransmission such as cable , satellite , digital terrestrial , closed circuit ip - based or mobile networks as well as the open internet . on the part of users , there is a growing demand for access to television and radio , including catch - up services not only originating in their member state but also in other member states of the union , including from members of linguistic minorities of the union as well as from persons who live in another member state than their member state of origin .


### since the provision of , the access to or the use of an ancillary online service is deemed to occur solely in the member state in which the broadcasting organisation has its principal establishment , while de facto the ancillary online service can be provided across borders to other member states , it is necessary to ensure that in arriving at the amount of the payment to be made for the rights in question , the parties should take into account all aspects of the ancillary online service such as the features of the service , the audience , including the audience in the member state in which the broadcasting organisation has its principal establishment and in other member states in which the ancillary online service is accessed and used , and the language version . ### since the provision of , the access to or the use of an online service is deemed to occur solely in the member state in which the broadcasting organisation has its principal establishment , while de facto the online service can be provided across borders to other member states , it is necessary to ensure that in arriving at the amount of the payment to be made for the rights in question , the parties should take into account all aspects of the online service such as the features of the service , the audience , including the audience in the member state in which the broadcasting organisation has its principal establishment and in other member states in which the ancillary online service is accessed and used , and all available language versions .