On 8 May 2025, the PEFC General Assembly officially approved the RED III standards, marking a significant milestone in supporting global organisations in complying with the EU’s Renewable Energy Directive RED III (2023/2413). This approval represents the final step in PEFC’s rigorous standard-setting process and reaffirms the system’s alignment with EU requirements, following a positive technical assessment by the European Commission in April 2025.

RED III (2023/2413) updates and replaces RED II (2018/2001), setting more ambitious targets for renewable energy shares, while strengthening sustainability criteria for biomass and requiring greater transparency in supply chain reporting. In response to these enhanced requirements, PEFC developed the RED III certification system based on its Chain of Custody framework, incorporating additional technical requirements and specific guidance.

From 21 May 2025, all RED certification assessments and approvals under the PEFC system will be conducted in accordance with the new RED III standards. This transition not only enables businesses to comply with RED III but also strengthens their ability to access the EU renewable energy market in a legitimate, transparent, and effective manner.

With the official adoption of the RED III standards, PEFC once again reaffirms its commitment to supporting businesses in the global energy transition, while ensuring compliance with the EU’s stringent sustainability regulations.

Details of the RED III standards  here  and the translated version of these standards will be published on the VFCS website.

VFCO