EU climate commissioner backs nuclear power and European-made industry to cut emissions

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  EU climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra says Europe should keep cutting carbon emissions and reduce its reliance on hydrocarbons.

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  He backs a stronger European preference for industry to resist competition from China, aligning with France’s position.

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  Hoekstra supports faster electrification using renewables, nuclear power and stronger electricity networks between EU member states.

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  He is due to visit Paris on 13 and 14 October 2026 for meetings with French ministers.

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  He will also take his message to the COP31 climate conference in Antalya in November.

Who

Wopke Hoekstra, the EU commissioner for climate, carbon neutrality and clean growth.

What

He backs nuclear power, faster electrification and a European preference for industry to help cut emissions and reduce reliance on hydrocarbons.

When

He is due in Paris on 13 and 14 October 2026, and at COP31 from 9 to 20 November.

Where

Paris, France, and COP31 in Antalya, Turkey.

Why

To maintain Europe’s emissions-reduction trajectory, reduce dependence on hydrocarbons and resist competition from China’s industry.

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