REPowerEU and Fitfor55 science-based policy recommendations for achieving the Energy Efficiency First Principle

The current changes of the planet’s biophysical dynamics, defining the current epoch of the Anthropocene, are becoming increasingly visible and intense, with 2021 being another record-breaking year of extreme weather. The urgency to respond is continuing to grow, as are efforts to limit global warming to well below 2oC, preferably 1.5oC, compared to pre-industrial levels, as mandated in the Paris Agreement. In addition, the war between Russia and Ukraine has put energy on the agenda and highlighted geopolitical elements of international fossil fuel trade and interdependence. The focus on fast transition away from parts of the European natural gas imports from Russia is pivotal.
A central measure towards a clean, smart and secure European energy system, is driven by significant energy savings, energy efficiency and deployment of renewable energy. The European Union has thus set ambitious objectives for the future of Europe’s energy system, committed to developing a sustainable and decarbonised system and transitioning toward a low carbon economy in line with the Paris Agreement. Energy efficiency is seen as a cost-effective key to supporting the transformation of the energy system and achieving climate neutrality in combination with an acceleration of the deployment of renewable energy. The Energy Efficiency First Principle urges Member States to prioritise energy efficiency in planning processes and investments. The question is what energy efficiency measures have which effect and at what levels renewable energy is more cost effective than further end savings?