Overall assessment
The 2010 Climate Policy Tracker gave Denmark a rating of D. Implemented climate and energy policies did not see significant changes over the last year; however the government published a strategy on how Denmark can become independent of fossil fuels by 2050. The strategy contains specific recommendations and details the financial impact. The strategy has not yet been negotiated in the Danish Parliament and has therefore not resulted in new legally agreed targets, policies or measures.
Recommendations on most urgent actions
- Denmark’s long history of policies promoting renewable energy and energy savings has led to its current comparatively high share of renewable electricity production. Denmark is one of the European countries which is best-placed to make the switch to 100% renewable energy and become independent from fossil fuels. Denmark can show further leadership in Europe by bringing forward its target to become free from fossil fuels from 2050 to, for example, 2040.
- The Danish target of independence from fossil fuels needs to be strengthened by making it legally binding, linking it to interim carbon budgets and strategies, and putting concrete policies in place to reach the target. See for example the UK.
- Danish policy has for decades favoured private car use and the focus on low-carbon transport has been low. Introduction of measures such as road pricing, congestion charges or a city toll, as well as an action and investment plan promoting the use of electric vehicles, are for example recommended. Good examples to promote energy efficiency of cars can be found for example in France.