INTERVIEW: Catching up with the commissioner behind Europe’s early energy transition

In this Euractiv interview, former EU Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs reflects on the early foundations of Europe’s energy transition and assesses its progress two decades on. Drawing on his experience during the adoption of the Renewable Energy Directive, he highlights key successes, ongoing challenges, and the importance of a structured, long-term approach to phasing out fossil fuels. The conversation also explores current policy responses to Europe’s energy crisis and the critical role of electrification in achieving a sustainable transition.