Amended proposal adopting SYNERGY programme
The European Commission has published its amended proposal for a Council Regulation adopting the SYNERGY programme for the promotion of international cooperation in the energy sector. While the programme is addressed to all non-member countries, the amended proposal gives priority to certain regions, in particular the Central and East European countries, the former Soviet Union and the Mediterranean region. Under the original proposal, the aims of the programme were to promote sustainable development, enhance the security of energy supplies, and improve energy efficiency. Under the amended proposal, SYNERGY aims to: - Promote sustainable development, notably by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants linked to energy consumption by encouraging the rational use of energy, the clean combustion of fossil fuels, renewable energy sources, combined energy/heat production and the use of waste heat from industry; - Devise integrated initiatives involving the selection and implementation of projects relating to the development of renewable energy technologies in specific regions and locations in order to demonstrate how effective they are in improving the quality of life; - Create networks specializing in the development and implementation of renewable energy technologies; - Enhance the security of energy supplies; - Improve energy efficiency; - Ensure the safety of power generation plant. In order to achieve these aims, the programme will carry out the following activities: - Energy planning; - Creation of institutes such as energy centres; - Technical assistance and training; - Organization of conferences and seminars. In addition, the amended proposal emphasizes that the programme will contribute to formulating and coordinating the Community's energy strategy towards non-member countries. The Community will also maintain intensive relations with international organizations in the energy sector. The amended proposal includes an annex laying down guidelines for the implementation of the action programme.