Proposed limitation of CO2 emissions by improved energy efficiency (SAVE programme)
An amended proposal for a Council Decision aiming at the limitation of CO2 emissions by improving energy efficiency, presented in the framework of the SAVE programme (COM(93) 279), sets out amendments made by the European Parliament at its first reading of the proposal and accepted by the Commission. In its initial proposal (COM(92) 182 of 20.5.1992) the Commission put forward a number of measures. These are, notably: - Energy certification of buildings; - Billing of heating, air-conditioning and hot-water costs on the basis of actual consumption; - Promotion of third-party financing for energy efficiency investments in the public sector; - Thermal insulation of new buildings; - Regular inspection of boilers and of vehicles; - Energy audits of businesses and of industrial establishments. Amendments deal in part with the energy certification of buildings (a description of their energy characteristics must provide information for prospective buyers concerning the building's energy efficiency in relation to publicly available and comparable reference factors). Significant improvement or deterioration in the energy characteristics of a building must result in a change in the energy certificate. New buildings will have an impact on long-term energy consumption and should be fitted with efficient thermal insulation tailored to the local climate; this applies equally to public authority buildings, where the public authorities should set an example in environmental considerations. Occupants of buildings supplied by a collective installation (costs to be apportioned between occupiers on the basis of the specific quantities of heat and hot and cold water used) must be able to regulate their own consumption of these services. It is proposed that the Member States bring into force the necessary provisions to comply with this framework Directive not later than 1 January 1994. The SAVE programme (Specific Actions for Vigorous Energy Efficiency) was adopted on 29 October 1991 by Council Decision 91/565/EEC (OJ No L 307 of 8.11.1991). Its objective is to promote energy efficiency throughout the Community, contributing to better use of resources and improved fund allocation. Technical measures concerning the performance of equipment (definition of standards, cogeneration, house automation) are backed by financial instruments providing additional incentives in other areas plus measures aimed at influencing consumer behaviour. These include the promotion of third-party financing, taxes and other levies, and the development of national energy plans. Where appropriate, third countries may be associated with SAVE actions.