(18 November 2010) A representative of DG Energy presented the Commission’s ongoing work such as the energy strategy 2020 and the just published infrastructure package. The Commission representative also introduced the energy work programme 2011 of the Commission (see 12-16 in the annex) which includes initiatives on Energy efficiency and energy savings as well as on Energy roadmaps 2050.
The social dialogue committee raised several issues around the future of the gas industry. How do biogas, shale gas, LNG and new gaspipelines impact on each other. The uncertainty can lead to a lack of investment. Other questions raised concerned the distribution companies, the transparency of wholesale markets, and most importantly the lack of a vision in the EU 2020 energy strategy paper on Europe’s future energy workforce. The social dialogue agreed to bring together experts to consider the future of the gas sector. In this context they also agreed to a mapping exercise on the work being done at national level on skills and occupations relevant for the gas sector.
Other issues:
- The social partners finalized a questionnaire on CSR and other policies in the gas sector which will lead to a major survey of companies to assist debates in the social dialogue committee.
- The European Commission is finalizing a study on the impact of market opening on employment in the Western Balkan countries. The social partners commented. The next Social Forum of the Energy Community will likely be in October 2011, Moldova.
- The social partners also agreed the work programme for 2011. Issues: CSR, future of gas, skills mapping exercise, European energy policy
- Martina Ifflaender (Eurogas) will become the President of the social dialogue committee gas in 2011. For EPSU Didier Baur is the vice-president
The EPSU delegation was represented by colleagues from Czech Republic, Netherlands and Slovakia and EPSU Deputy General Secretary. The social dialogue committee gas met 17 November 2010 Brussels.
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