Brussels – A group of EU countries have declared their resistance to the European Commission’s proposed 30% energy efficiency target, and may attempt to reduce the level of ambition of new legislation.
Seven countries have asked for more detailed impact assessments to be carried out before backing the 30% target, with the suggestion that they may attempt to reduce the yearly savings rate in the Energy Efficiency Directive from 1.5% to 1.4%.
Regarding the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, ministers assessed that the proposed obligations on renovation, aiming at decarbonising the building stock by 2050, are too demanding and unclear.
Member states will look to find a joint position before the Transport, Telecommunication and Energy Council meets in June.
The Commission is looking to put in place post 2020 targets for energy efficiency, and laid out its plans in ‘Clean Energy for all Europeans’ package of proposals presented on 30 November 2016.