EU Energy Ministers Back REPowerEU Roadmap to Phase Out Russian Gas by 2028, Boost Renewable and Electrified Energy Transition

At the Energy Council meeting in Luxembourg on Tuesday, European Union (EU) Energy Ministers reached a broad agreement on the REPowerEU Roadmap, aiming for a complete phase-out of Russian gas imports by 2028. The ministers also voiced strong support for the European Commission’s upcoming Electrification Action Plan, recognising electrification as a central pillar of Europe’s energy independence.

The discussions preceded the European Commission’s presentation of its 2026 Work Programme, which confirmed upcoming key initiatives, including a review of the EU’s energy security framework, implementation of the Electrification Action Plan, the phase-out of fossil fuel subsidies, and a proposal for an Energy Union package for the next decade.

Dries Acke, Deputy CEO of SolarPower Europe, described the developments as “a breakthrough moment for Europe’s energy transition.” He emphasized that the REPowerEU Roadmap and the Electrification Action Plan are critical steps toward achieving a flexible, renewables-based, and electrified energy system, which he said is essential for energy security and reducing Europe’s reliance on Russian gas.

Acke further highlighted the role of solar energy, stating that the sector is prepared to support Europe’s transition and urged that national implementation of EU permitting and electricity market rules remain consistent, without unnecessary legislative revisions that could confuse investors.

With these milestones, the EU is advancing toward structural energy resilience, prioritizing renewables and electrification over fossil fuel diversification to strengthen energy security and independence.