Iceland – Energy

Candidate countries conduct negotiations with the European Union (EU) in order to prepare themselves for accession. The accession negotiations cover the adoption and implementation of European legislation (acquis) and, more specifically, the priorities identified jointly by the Commission and the candidate countries in the analytical assessment (or ‘screening’) of the EU’s political and legislative acquis. Each year, the Commission reviews the progress made by candidates and evaluates the efforts required before their accession. This monitoring is the subject of annual reports presented to the Council and the European Parliament.

ACT

Commission Report [COM(2011) 666 final – SEC(2011) 1202 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

SUMMARY

In its 2011 Report the Commission states that Iceland has achieved a high level of alignment which is largely due to the application of the European Economic Area (EEA) Agreement.

EUROPEAN UNION ACQUIS (according to the Commission’s words)

Community energy policy objectives include the improvement of competitiveness, security of energy supplies and the protection of the environment. The energy acquis consists of rules and policies, notably regarding competition and State aid (including in the coal sector), the internal energy market (for example, opening up of the electricity and gas markets, promotion of renewable energy sources, crisis management and oil stock security obligations), energy efficiency, nuclear energy and radiation protection.

EVALUATION (according to the Commission’s words)

Overall, Iceland’s level of alignment continues to be satisfactory in the field of energy. However, progress must still be achieved concerning oil stocks, the independence of the regulatory authority and energy efficiency.

See also

• Website of the Directorate General for Enlargement, Accession negotiations with Iceland

Last updated: 13.10.2011