Unlocking Energy Savings in Europe’s Economy

The benefits of energy savings also extend far beyond achieving reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

Improving energy savings is not only key to fighting climate change; it is also the cheapest way to reduce fossil fuel energy consumption and the cornerstone of long-term economic and social prosperity.

Globally, energy use contributes to almost two thirds of greenhouse gas emissions, and these emissions are rising. Although largely neglected, the quickest and easiest way to reduce energy consumption is by saving energy and by promoting the use of more efficient appliances and cars, better insulation, better heating and cooling systems.

The economic benefits of energy savings

The benefits of energy savings also extend far beyond achieving reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

Energy savings contribute to economic and social prosperity. Paying for energy raises costs for Europe’s economies. Investing in energy savings would boost job creation and reduce the amount Europe spends on energy imports. It would make the European Union more competitive in an increasingly globalised world.

Stopping the wasteful use of energy and improving energy efficiency would also directly benefit European citizens by lowering energy bills for consumers and protecting homeowners from fluctuating energy prices.

In times of global economic crisis Europe cannot afford to miss the energy savings opportunity. It is now time for European leaders to get the European Union on track to meet its promised 20% energy savings target by 2020, and to include energy savings targets in a post-2020 policy package.

CONTACTS

Arianna Vitali Roscini

Policy Officer for energy conservation

WWF European Policy Office

+32 2 743 88 16

Email Arianna

Renewable energies and energy efficiency in YOUR neighbourhood

Have you installed a solar energy system, a geothermal heatpump, or other renewable systems yourself? Or have you insulated your building to make it more energy efficient? Add your example to the map to make it visible and inspire others to take action as well. Each example is important!