The EPP’s Energy Dilemma: Saying One Thing, Doing Another?
Brussels, March 23, 2026 – The European People’s Party (EPP), the largest political group in the European Parliament, finds itself under scrutiny this week as questions arise about its commitment to tackling high energy prices and accelerating the transition to renewables. Although publicly advocating for “clean energy” and independence from energy imports, critics point to a pattern of delaying and weakening key climate policies.
Corporate Concerns and the EPP’s Stance
At last week’s Green Growth Summit and EU environment summit, major corporations like Coca-Cola, Ikea, and Amazon urged the EU to prioritize consistent climate policy and the shift to renewable energy sources. They argued that fluctuating policies hinder investment and that renewables enhance energy security. However, these calls appear to fall on potentially deaf ears within the EPP.
A History of Dilution and Delay
According to reports, the conservative right-wing faction within the EPP has repeatedly obstructed or weakened environmental and climate legislation, despite publicly supporting climate action. This apparent contradiction has fueled frustration among businesses seeking a stable regulatory environment.
US Lobbying Influence?
The concerns extend to potential external influences. EPP member Jörgen Warborn has been linked to lobbying efforts from US oil companies ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Koch Industries, through a ‘competitiveness roundtable’ aimed at undermining European climate policies. Simultaneously, Peter Liese, another EPP member, has actively worked to prevent the EU’s 2040 climate targets from being considered “over ambitious.”
The ‘Breakthrough’ Answer: More of the Same?
The EPP’s recently proposed solution to high energy prices – “accelerating clean energy, strengthening European grids and reducing energy dependency” – has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that it simply reiterates previously stated goals without offering concrete new strategies.
Beyond Energy: Platform Economy and Rule of Law
The EPP’s actions aren’t limited to energy policy. A new EU competitiveness proposal is raising concerns among notaries regarding potential loopholes that could undermine the rule of law, specifically related to money laundering. This proposal could allow companies to seek out jurisdictions with the lowest regulatory standards.
Invisible Labour, Visible Profits
The platform economy is also facing scrutiny. Research indicates that workers on digital platforms may spend up to a third of their time on unpaid labor. Business Europe is currently lobbying the European Commission to avoid requiring systematic tracking of working time, potentially exacerbating this issue.
US Influence on Europe
Concerns about external influence extend beyond the energy sector. Journalist Dave Keating argues that European leaders are too readily accepting American influence, impacting the bloc’s economic, cultural, and military independence.
FAQ
- What is the EPP? The EPP is a centre-right, pro-European political party gathering over 82 parties from 43 countries.
- What are the main criticisms against the EPP? The EPP is criticized for potentially delaying climate policies, aligning with US lobbying interests, and proposing solutions that lack concrete action.
- What is Business Europe lobbying for? Business Europe is lobbying the European Commission to avoid requiring systematic tracking of working time for certain workers.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about EU policy developments by following investigative journalism platforms like Follow the Money’s Bureau Brussels.
What do you think about the EPP’s approach? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
