Europe’s IT industry, which consumes eight per cent of all electrical power in the EU, has to spell out how it intends to become more energy-efficient by 2015.

The European Commission approved a recommendation calling on the industry to outline the practical steps it will take by 2011 to become 20 per cent more energy-efficient in six years’ time.

The use of IT equipment, such as personal computers, servers and all modern technology is contributing substantially towards the creation of greenhouse gas emissions.

The Commission’s recommendation aims to unlock the potential of energy-efficiency through partnerships between the ICT industry and defined strategic sectors. Buildings, transport and logistics’ sectors are identified as key economic sectors where energy-efficiency through the use of ICT is largely untapped.

Smart grids and smart metering systems can improve production efficiency and control, and the distribution and consumption of energy.

Member states have until the end of 2010 to agree on a common specification for smart metering to provide consumers with better information and help them manage energy consumption.

With smart meters in their homes consumers could reduce their energy consumption by as much as 10 per cent. A timeframe for the roll-out of smart metering in European households should be agreed, at the latest, by the end of 2012.

Malta is moving well in this area and smart metres should be installed in all households by 2012, according to a €70 million tender.

“Making better use of innovative ICT solutions will help us meet Europe’s objectives of a low-carbon economy,” Viviane Reding, EU Commissioner for Information Society and Media, said.

“We must seize the chance to lead the way in energy-efficient technologies. Not only because it is the best way to achieve sustainable cuts in CO2 emissions but because the ecological potential of these technologies can open up new business opportunities for European ICT companies.”