Fast‑Track Environmental Checks for New Projects

What the problem is
The EU needs to speed up the environmental checks that are part of the planning and permission process for projects that can affect the environment. Current rules are fragmented, slow, and vary from country to country, which delays important projects such as renewable‑energy plants, data centres, ports, and affordable housing. The EU wants a single, clear framework that keeps high environmental protection while making the process faster and cheaper.

How the problem is being solved
The Commission proposes a new Regulation that:

• Creates one “environmental single point of contact” in each Member State to coordinate all environmental assessments for a project.
• Sets strict time limits – e.g. 60 days for screening, 30 days for the scope of an assessment, 90 days for a final decision.
• Combines or joins all required assessments (SEA, EIA, Habitats, Birds, Water) into one procedure so that the same information is used for every directive.
• Gives priority to strategic sectors (renewable energy, grids, data centres, AI factories, circular‑economy projects, ports, affordable housing) through a “toolbox” that can shorten timelines further.
• Requires digitalisation – developers can submit all documents electronically, a central online portal shows the status of the assessment, and data can be reused across borders.
• Provides for a “substantial preclusion” rule so that arguments not raised during the administrative stage cannot be brought later in court, speeding up the process while still protecting the right to a fair review.
• Keeps environmental protection – protected species can be harmed only if mitigation measures are adequate and proportionate; trans‑boundary effects must be assessed jointly.
• Includes training and staffing – Member States must ensure enough qualified staff and resources for the new procedures.
• Sets a clear budget – the proposal is expected to be financed mainly by existing EU funds, with no new budget needed.

What changes as a result of this document

• Faster approvals – the maximum time for a screening is 60 days, for a full assessment 90 days, and for a final decision 90 days after the assessment is complete.
• One‑stop shop – a single point of contact will handle all environmental paperwork for a project.
• Digital portal – by 6 months after entry into force, developers can submit documents online; by 12 months, all assessment reports will be publicly available in a digital format; by 24 months, the whole procedure will be fully digital and interoperable with European Digital Identity and Business Wallets.
• Strategic‑sector fast‑track – projects in the toolbox can receive even quicker timelines and simplified dispute procedures.
• Co‑ordination across borders – Member States must cooperate on trans‑boundary projects, with the Commission acting as facilitator.
• Budget and staffing – the Regulation will use existing EU budget lines; Member States must allocate staff and training to meet the new requirements.

These changes aim to make environmental assessments quicker, more transparent, and more consistent across the EU while still protecting the environment and human health.