Action for energy efficient buildings
The European Commission is proposing to take action to promote energy efficiency in new and existing buildings. 'The European Commission has decided to put forward legislative measures to ensure that improvements are made in energy performance in buildings to the benefit of all: [for] better protection of our environment, increased security of energy supply and lower energy bills,' commented Energy and transport Commissioner Loyola de Palacio. The Commission's proposed new draft directive aims to improve energy efficiency in buildings by up to 22 per cent by 2010. According to the Commission's earlier Green paper, 'Towards a European strategy for energy supply,' if measures are not taken, the EU's dependence on imported energy will increase to 70 per cent in 2030 (compared with 50 per cent today). 'Having only limited scope to influence energy supply conditions, the Union should promote economies in the use of energy wherever possible,' says the Commission. 'More than 40 per cent of energy consumption is in the buildings sector, most of which is for heating, hot water, cooling and lighting, A cost-effective saving potential of over 22 per cent of this consumption is estimated to exist.' The main elements of the Commission's latest proposal on this issue are: - a common methodology for the development of integrated minimum energy performance standards; - application and regular updating of minimum standards based on this methodology for new buildings and also for existing buildings over 1500 square metres when renovated; - certification schemes for new and existing buildings; -specific inspection and assessment of heating and cooling installations by qualified personnel.