Energy efficiency

Action needs to go beyond the usual technological solutions, countries must consider not just kilowatts and power lines, but also include the social dimensions of energy transition.

High upfront costs, limited financing options, and a lack of awareness among landlords and tenants are some of the barriers for renewable heating adoption in the rental sector. In a recent briefing CAN Europe proposes solutions to facilitate the transition.

The CLEVER scenario, a Collaborative Low Energy Vision for the European Region, is an energy transition scenario that follows a “sufficiency – efficiency – renewables” approach.

Buildings account for as much as 40 per cent of the EU’s overall energy consumption, with 75 per cent of these structures classified as inefficient.

The total excess heat in the EU covers almost all of the EU’s total energy demand for heat and hot water in residential and service sector buildings. This potential needs to be utilised, especially during these times of energy and climate crises.

Heating and cooling of buildings is behind a third of CO2 emissions in the EU. Less than 1% of the stock is renovated each year; member states must step up and increase the pace.

In September, the European Parliament voted on several proposals to address the energy crisis. Meanwhile the EU Commission proposed a new law to manage energy prices. 

The European Commission’s proposal “Fit for 55” includes new targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency.  They have to go further to be in line with the 1.5°C goal.

The new European Commission needs to sprint towards climate action to be in line with the Paris Agreement. There is growing support for at least 55% emission reductions by 2030.

Reducing energy waste through appropriate energy efficiency measures is the most direct way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions ...

The European Commission do not believe that their own proposal for a new Energy Efficiency Directive will be enough to meet the 20 per cent energy savings target by 2020.