Overview

Effective energy efficiency policies are important in reducing energy consumption, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development. Different countries have adopted a variety of strategies and measures to improve energy efficiency. Below is an overview of energy efficiency policies in the European region.

Energy Efficiency Directive – EED

Ambitious energy efficiency objectives are key to driving Europe’s energy transition. By using energy more efficiently thus consuming less, Europeans can reduce their energy bills, help protect the environment, mitigate climate change, improve their quality of life, reduce the EU’s dependence on external oil and gas suppliers and support sustainable growth of the EU economy. To achieve these benefits, energy efficiency needs to be improved across the entire energy supply chain, from production to final consumption.

Ecodesign Directive:
This Directive sets minimum energy efficiency standards for household appliances, lighting and heating equipment.

The ESPR replaces the current Ecodesign Directive 209/125/EC and establishes a framework for creating ecodesign requirements for specific product groups:

The legislation allows for the setting of performance and information conditions – known as “Ecodesign Requirements” – for almost all types of physical goods (with some exceptions, such as food and animal feed, under Regulation 178/2002).

Examples of specific products and indicators:

  • Refrigerators and freezers: Energy Efficiency Index (EEI). All refrigerators and freezers must have an EEI below a specific threshold to be sold on the EU market. For example, to achieve A+++, the EEI must be below 22.
  • Annual Energy Consumption (AEC) requirements: measured in kWh/year and must be clearly displayed on the product’s energy label.

Energy Performance of Buildings Directive – EPBD

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) is a European Union programme to improve the energy performance of buildings and reduce carbon emissions from the construction industry.

Main objectives:

  • To improve building performance
  • To promote the use of renewable energy
  • To improve the quality of the living environment

Measures:

  • Energy performance requirements: The EPBD requires member states to establish standards and regulations including requirements for insulation, air conditioning systems, lighting systems and energy-saving equipment.
  • Energy performance certification: Buildings must have energy performance certification to assess and compare the level of energy savings between different buildings.
  • Adaptation and upgrading: EPBD requires member states to plan and promote measures to adapt and upgrade existing buildings to achieve energy performance standards.

Incentives and Sanctions

Incentives

Rewards and bonuses:

Reward schemes often include incentives and incentives for buildings and individuals that meet high energy performance standards, such as:

– Tax reductions or exemptions

– Financial support

Certification:

– Buildings certified as high energy performance can be used as an attraction for subscribers and customers.

Sanctions

Administrative penalties:

Penalties typically apply to violations of energy performance requirements, such as failure to obtain or obtain periodic energy performance certification.

Non-conforming products:

Manufacturers or distributors may be subject to penalties for violations of these regulations.