We must deal with the climate policy cautiously and while setting its goals, observe the directions taken by the world’s most competitive economies. If the European Union wants to maintain its potential and leading position in the global economy, it must reduce energy prices and make every effort to help industry grow. Otherwise, the EU will become a society of consumers and social benefits.

The reindustrialization of Europe, optimum use of indigenous raw materials, and cheap energy are no longer challenges of the future. We need a decision now, before it is too late. No one doubts that we are rapidly losing our competitive edge, not only to Asia, but also to the United States. The revival of industrial investments in the US is, above all, a consequence of the revolution taking place there with the growing production of crude oil and natural gas from unconventional sources.

The EU talks on whether it is better to reduce CO2 emissions by 30% or by 40% are pointless. Any tangible benefits of the climate policy are possible only if pro-environmental actions cover the whole world. But the fact is that average per capita CO2 emissions are 7 tonnes in the EU and 17 tonnes in the US. And this is only the tip of the iceberg, clearly showing that we have to approach climate policy with caution, and while setting its objectives, we should observe the development directions of the competitive global economies. Let us note here that the average GDP for the 15 ‘old’ EU states is three times higher than for the other member states. Consequently, the rate at which the economic development gap between the old and new member states closes has been decelerating. To reverse this trend, Central European countries must develop their industry efficiently and consistently, effectively creating new jobs. To this end, they need cheap energy, generated mainly from domestic sources.

Central Europe Energy Partners has been consistent in its support for balance between the EU's economic development and its climate policy. However, the rate at which the climate policy objectives are achieved cannot be set without regard to the actual situation of both EU member states and the global economy. Industry is leaving Europe. To stop this, we must first reduce energy prices. This is also important because, as we could see during the recent economic crisis, industry-driven economies survived in a much better shape.