EuroACE, the European Alliance of Companies for Energy Efficiency in Buildings, and its member companies note with satisfaction that the Commission has proposed a Directive (COM (2011) 370 final) whose focus is on improving energy efficiency in the EU. However, we regret the low level of ambition, targets and firm measures that the proposed Directive contains for the buildings sector. Buildings account for about 40% of EU energy consumption. Substantial energy savings are required if we are to meet both our 2020 energy savings target and our 2050 targets for a low carbon economy. Most buildings that will exist in 2050 are already built, so it is vital that an ambitious programme of energy efficient systematic renovation of the EU building stock starts NOW. The proposed Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) should be a key driver in delivering this and in stimulating the EU energy efficiency market.

EuroACE published today, 28 September 2011, a position paper where we share our views of the proposed EED:

• The 3% renovation rate for public sector buildings and 1.5% savings obligation for the utility sector and measures to promote ESCOs require tighter definitions.

• The draft Directive misses an opportunity to promote the systematic renovation of the EU building stock.

• A 2050 EU target for the buildings sector should be set, based on the cost-efficient share the buildings sector can contribute.

• A binding energy savings target is necessary for the EU to achieve its long-term low carbon economy objectives. The review date for this issue should be brought forward to 2013.

• The methodology to be used by the Commission in its evaluation of Member State plans should be published well in advance of the date on which the evaluation will start and the methodology should be open to public scrutiny.

• EuroACE regrets the lack of any discussion on financing of energy efficiency measures in the draft Directive. Energy efficiency in buildings should be stimulated by obligation schemes.

EuroACE is most concerned that the lack of binding targets and absence of ambition in the draft Directive will not give the energy-efficiency industry sufficient confidence to invest in the increased capacity necessary to deliver substantial improvements in the energy performance of the building stock in the EU. We therefore urge stronger and more well-defined targets and specific measures with a long term focus.

See EuroACE Position on the Proposed Directive of the European Parliament and Council on Energy Efficiency (COM(2011) 370 final)

Ends

For further information contact:

Adrian M Joyce – Secretary General of EuroACE and Renovate Europe Campaign Director

Tel: +32 2 639 1010

E-mail: adrian.joyce@euroace.org

Note to Editors:

EuroACE, the European Alliance of Companies for Energy Efficiency in Buildings, is comprised of Europe’s leading companies involved with the manufacture, distribution and installation of energy saving goods and services. EuroACE members have a total turnover of 140 billion Euros and employ 172,000 people in Europe alone. The mission of EuroACE is to work together with the European institutions to help Europe move towards a more sustainable pattern of energy use in buildings, thereby contributing to Europe’s commitments on climate change, energy security and economic growth.

EuroACE members:

• Aereco

• Armacell International

• BASF

• Danfoss

• Honeywell

• Johnson Controls

• Kingspan Insulated Panels

• Knauf Insulation

• Paroc

• Philips Lighting

• Pilkington

• PU Europe

• Rockwool International

• Saint-Gobain Isover

• Solutia

• Somfy

• United Technologies

• URSA Insulation

• VELUX Group