The Guardian: EU energy chief calls for no new taxes as talks begin on 2030 climate targets

Competition from US firms sparks concern as green paper sets out aims for Europe's new climate policy, EU taxes

There should be no new taxes on energy within the EU, and current taxes should not be raised, if prices are to be kept competitive with rivals fuelled by cheap shale gas in the US, the EU's energy chief has told the Guardian. 

He was speaking as David Cameron's government prepared for a bruising collision with the European commission over renewable energy, in a policy clash that could shape the development of energy infrastructure for decades to come.

Guenther Oettinger told the Guardian that Europe's industry must become more efficient, and that energy markets must be further liberalised across the bloc, if the EU is not to fall behind US industry. 

"To compete we must have a functioning internal market for electricity, with more competition (among energy suppliers)," he said. "Energy efficiency is very important – we must consume less. And no new taxes on energy, and no higher taxes on energy, to get to a suitable price for energy consumers (including energy-intensive businesses)."  MORE