The energy and digital transition of rural areas

OPINION Section for Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment The energy and digital transition of rural areas (Own-initiative opinion) Rapporteur: John COMER Co-rapporteur: Luís MIRA Contact nat@eesc.europa.eu Administrator Arturo INIGUEZ YUSTE Document date 08/09/2022 NAT/859 The energy and digital transition of rural areas Plenary Assembly decision 20/01/2022 Legal basis Rule 52(2) of the Rules of Procedure Own-initiative opinion Section responsible Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment Adopted in section 30/06/2022 Outcome of vote (for/against/abstentions) 55/0/6 Adopted at plenary DD/MM/YYYY Plenary session No … Outcome of vote (for/against/abstentions) …/…/… 1. Conclusions and recommendations 1.1 The EESC considers that a combined strategy of energy and digital transition in rural areas has not received the level of attention and support that one would expect. The EESC calls for the swift implementation of the Commission's long-term vision for the EU's rural areas and the mobilisation of stakeholders through the EU Rural Pact. The most vulnerable rural areas need special attention so that no one is left behind. It is vital to focus on energy poverty and areas of rural poverty. 1.2 The EESC is convinced that the future success of Europe will largely depend on how we deal with rural areas in a way that is in balance with urban areas. Rural communities should not be disadvantaged when it...