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About
Climate and energy

Climate and energy

The Working Group on Energy and Climate, led by Folmer de Haan of the Rli, collaboratively addresses critical climate and energy policy issues that advisory councils in Europe are confronted with both at national and regional level. Its main function is to exchange valuabe experiences and pool expertise within our network of council members and staff of the different councils.  

Under Folmer de Haan's leadership, we advocate for climate goals and supportive policies at EU level, invitestakeholders for webinars, build capacity within our network, and most importantly share knowledge on energy and climate topics.  

Our activities include discussing EU and national policies, such as the European Green Deal and National Energy and Climate plans. We also focus on sustainable finance to mobilize resources for green initiatives and examine cross-border infrastructure developments to enhance energy connectivity and resilience. 

To facilitate knowledge exchange, we organize online sessions several times a year, fostering dialogue and collaboration among members. 

In the past, the Working Group on Energy and Climate has actively engaged in shaping policy discussions. In 2023 we've contributed to EU initiatives, such as crafting letters endorsing the ESABCC's call for more ambitious emission targets for 2040. Additionally, we've organized sessions focusing on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Corporate Sustainable Development and Digitalization (CSDDD) to promote sustainable business practices. 

Working group contacts

Treasurer & Co-Chair Working Group Climate and Energy
Co-Chair Working Group Climate and Energy
Folmer de Haan has been chairing the working group since January 2022. Folmer is the deputy director of the Council for the Environment and Infrastructure (Rli). Menno Ottens has started his tenure as a co-chair of the working group in 2024. He has served as a senior advisor at the Netherlands Scientific Climate Council (WKR) since its establishment in April 2023.