The deal would require Member States to step up their efforts to improve energy efficiency. But in the absence of binding national targets the Directive’s requirements might only close half of the gap to the EU’s 20% energy savings target by 2020.
This deal is an important step towards acknowledging energy efficiency as a centre-piece of Europe’s sustainable growth strategy. But its weakness reflects that national governments still lack the conviction that energy efficiency is the opportunity to get out of the economic, environmental and social crises.
“It is regrettable that the financial crisis weakened the political will for a strong Directive - when in fact investments in energy efficiency could give a major boost to European economies” said Stefan Scheuer, Secretary General of the Coalition for Energy Savings. “Governments struggled to see the opportunities energy savings represent to reduce energy bills, boost economic growth and create local jobs. We hope the Directive will unlock investments in energy efficiency and demonstrate their benefits to make the case for further policies and actions to secure the 20% energy savings target.”
Read the full press release
The Coalition for Energy Savings brings together business, professional, local authorities and civil society associations. The Coalition’s purpose is to make the case for a European energy policy that places a much greater, more meaningful emphasis on energy efficiency and savings. In particular it is arguing for the current 20% energy efficiency target to be binding.
Coalition members represent:
- more than 400 associations, and 150 companies
- 15 million supporters, more than 1.5 million employees
- 1,000 cities and towns in 30 countries in Europe
More information
www.energy-cities.eu/Energy-Cities-joins-the-Coalition
http://energycoalition.eu
RSS
Feed
