EU wants to cut energy use by 20 per cent

The European Union will be introducing more than 75 measures over the coming years aimed at reducing energy consumption by some 20 per cent by 2020.

European Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs said when launching a new EU action plan on energy efficiency that currently, Europe wastes at least 20 per cent of the energy it uses.

"By saving energy, Europe will help address climate change, as well as its rising consumption and its dependence on fossil fuels imported from outside the EU.

"Energy efficiency is crucial for Europe and if action is taken now, the EU's consumption could be reduced by more than €100 billion annually by 2020 and around 780 million tonnes of carbon dioxide will also be avoided yearly."

The EU's action plan, to be implemented over the next six years, underlines the importance of minimum energy performance standards for a wide range of appliances and equipment. These range from household goods such as fridges and air conditioners to industrial pumps and fans.

The plan also highlights the considerable potential for reducing losses in the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. It proposes targeted instruments to improve the efficiency of both new and existing generation capacity and to reduce transmission and distribution losses.

A comprehensive set of measures for improving energy efficiency in the area of transport is also put forward. The plan recognises the energy savings that can be achieved, in particular, by ensuring fuel efficient cars, developing markets for cleaner vehicles, ensuring proper tyre pressure and by improving the efficiency of urban, maritime, and aviation transport systems.

The Commission's plan also lays emphasis on education. The initiatives to be taken in 2007 will include education and training plans and programmes for energy managers in industry and utilities. Teaching aids for primary, secondary and vocational educational curricula will also be introduced.

According to the Commission, a 20 per cent reduction in consumption can translate into yearly savings of between €200 and €1,000 for an average household.

For example, a few basic insulation measures can easily save €200 on the annual energy bill, while a further €40 can be saved by replacing an old fridge with a more recent and more economical (high-efficiency) model.

Mr Piebalgs said that this action plan, when fully implemented, can improve the EU's competitiveness, improve the living standards of EU citizens, boost employment and increase exports of new, energy-efficient technology.