Luca Bragoli all’Implementation Dialogue on Permitting

Why must simplification go beyond rewriting the rules?

“Simplification is not only about rewriting the rules, it’s also about applying them swiftly, clearly, and everywhere. Permitting cannot remain a bottleneck: it must become the enabler of Europe’s clean energy future.”
Luca Bragoli, Chief Regulatory & Public Affairs Officer at ERG, spoke at the Implementation Dialogue on Permitting, organised by the European Commission and Commissioner Dan Jørgensen as part of the EU Sustainable Energy Week 2025.

What is the main challenge for permitting in the EU today?

Bragoli stressed that while the EU’s permitting framework is improving, the real challenge lies in its effective transposition and consistent application across Member States. Fragmentation, delays, and lack of coordination are still hindering strategic investments in renewable energy and electrification.

Are there positive examples of permitting reform in Europe?

Yes. Bragoli pointed out that progress is possible. In Germany, new efforts are underway to improve institutional coordination. In Italy, the recent streamlining of permitting for repowering projects under 30 MW—which exempts them from EIA and shortens approval times—is a best practice fully aligned with the goals of REDIII.

What are the priority areas to accelerate the energy transition?

To achieve Europe’s energy transition goals, it is essential to focus on: targeted support for repowering and grid upgrades; full enforcement of the Overriding Public Interest principle in REDIII; rollout of digital one-stop shops to streamline permitting; unlocking the full potential of electrification; and harmonising permitting procedures across Member States.

How can the EU move from intention to execution?

Only by fully implementing existing rules can Europe move from intention to execution and significantly accelerate the on-the-ground deployment of renewables.