Denmark’s Jørgensen appointed EU energy and housing chief

Dan Jørgensen has been appointed as the EU's commissioner-designate for energy and housing, a role announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Jørgensen, a member of the Social Democrats, previously served as Denmark's climate and energy minister from 2019 to 2022, where he played a significant role in establishing ambitious climate targets, including a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. His experience also includes a focus on transitioning workers from fossil fuel industries to renewable energy sectors, particularly in wind energy. In his new position, Jørgensen will be the first-ever commissioner for housing, tasked with addressing various aspects of energy efficiency, investment, and construction. His appointment comes at a critical time as the EU seeks to reduce its reliance on Russian fossil fuels amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Jørgensen's background as a prominent negotiator at the United Nations COP climate summits positions him well to tackle these pressing energy challenges. The selection of Jørgensen was unexpected, as other candidates like Jozef Síkel and Teresa Ribera were initially considered frontrunners. His confirmation hearing in the European Parliament is anticipated in October, where he will outline his plans to lower energy prices and promote clean energy investments. This role is crucial for the EU's energy strategy, especially in light of the current energy crisis. Jørgensen's previous roles, including his time in the European Parliament and as agriculture minister, have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of environmental policies and their implications. His leadership is expected to drive significant changes in the EU's approach to energy and housing, aligning with broader climate goals and sustainability efforts.