After many trials and tribulations, the Commission last winter thumbs up to be able to classify nuclear and gas investments as sustainable, at least in some cases.
But the European Parliament does not agree - at least not when the committees on the environment (Envi) and the economy (Econ) are allowed to rule.
In a unanimous vote at lunchtime today, 76 Members voted in favor of the Commission's proposal, against 62 in favor.
4 members abstained.
This opens the way for the whole proposal to be rejected when the rest of the European Parliament will hold a decisive vote in early June.
Satisfied and disappointed
- I am extremely happy and proud.
There is nothing sustainable about fossil gas.
This is a hugely important step for a green transition, says Swedish member Emma Wiesner (C) after the vote.
Colleague Karin Karlsbro (L) is more disappointed.
- I'm disappointed, but above all worried.
I think it is incredibly important that we include nuclear power as part of the solution, both to the climate crisis and the energy security crisis that Europe is in, says Karlsbro.
"Dirty"
Among EU member states, there has at least previously been a fairly strong majority in favor of the taxonomy proposal.
In particular, nuclear power has support in France and several countries in the eastern parts of the EU.
If the whole European Parliament says no, however, it does not matter what the Member States say.
The Commission's proposal must be approved by both Parliament and the Member States in order to become a reality.
If there is a no, the Commission will have to rethink - and perhaps share - nuclear power and natural gas.
- Exactly how they have reasoned from the beginning to put it together, you can think about.
It is clear that this is about strategy.
But if it does not succeed, it is quite possible that they try to share it, says Pär Holmgren (MP) after today's vote.