How to Make Europe Number 1 in Energy Efficiency?

The Energy Efficiency Watch 3 project delivers practical evidence on where the implementation of energy efficiency policies of the Energy Efficiency Directive Member states stands, which measures to achieve the 20 percent energy efficiency target by 2020 are working well, which less – and why this is the case. It shows that policy makers are progressively recognising energy efficiency as a suitable means to address the triple challenge of economic recovery, energy dependency and climate change. However, policies are only regarded as supportive in this respect if effective and stable. Therefore, public acceptance depends on the quality and effectiveness of energy efficiency policies.

Many EU Member States still need to grasp the benefits or be given the resources to invest enough money and implementing capacity in energy efficiency policies, for there an enormous disparity among Member states in levels of ambition and progress of energy efficiency policies. The multiple benefits of energy efficiency have to be sufficiently understood by national policy makers and stakeholders and have to become an integral part of security and economic policy.This would not only make the EU number 1 in energy efficiency but also lead the way out of the economic and financial crisis.

Energy Effiency Watch is an initiative by EUFORES, a group of members of the European parliament headed by Claude Turmes. Das Wuppertal Institute is one of the projekt partners. For more information, please see the project's website, where you also find all publications, or see the project description.