Energy transition in Europe could save 34,000 lives and billions annually

energy transition renewable energy climate action benefits economic impact carbon neutrality

A new study by the Plan4Climate coalition and CAN Europe indicates that the energy transition in Europe could save 34,000 lives and generate 826 billion euros annually by 2030. In Portugal alone, the transition could yield 8.5 billion euros in co-benefits by 2030, potentially rising to 28.6 billion euros annually by 2050.

Beyond financial gains, the report highlights significant social and health benefits, including the creation of over 8.5 million full-time jobs across Europe by 2030. Reductions in air pollution are expected to prevent 8,000 hospitalizations and 3.3 million sick days each year.

On a global scale, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) warns that drastic acceleration in electrification and renewables is required to meet the 1.5°C Paris Agreement target. IRENA projects that global renewable capacity must reach 38.2 TW by 2050, a move that could generate 46 trillion dollars in cumulative economic gains.

Entities

CAN Europe · EY · European Union · IMF · IRENA · International Monetary Fund · Plan4Climate · Portugal · Zero

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[○ 1 SOURCE] To maintain the 1.5°C Paris Agreement trajectory, global renewable capacity must grow from 5.2 TW to 38.2 TW by 2050. climainfo.org.br
[○ 1 SOURCE] A 1.5°C aligned scenario could generate cumulative global economic gains of approximately US$ 46 trillion by 2050. climainfo.org.br
[● 5 SOURCES] Portugal could generate 8.5 billion euros in co-benefits from the energy transition by 2030, equivalent to 2.45% of its 2025 GDP. recordeuropa.com · greensavers.sapo.pt · observador.pt
[○ 1 SOURCE] Foreign Direct Investment in Portugal fell by 5% in 2025 compared to 2024. dinheirovivo.dn.pt
[● 5 SOURCES] Energy saving measures in Europe could create over 8.5 million full-time jobs by 2030, including 6.5 million in building renovation. recordeuropa.com · greensavers.sapo.pt · observador.pt
[● 5 SOURCES] A study by Plan4Climate and CAN Europe indicates that the energy transition in Europe could save 34,000 lives and generate 826 billion euros annually by 2030. recordeuropa.com · greensavers.sapo.pt · observador.pt