France throws weight behind 30% energy savings goal

(EurActiv, 23 Jul 2014) France's energy minister has joined Germany in backing an energy efficiency goal of at least 30% for 2030 ahead of talks in Brussels today (23 July) to thrash out a target.

Energy efficiency policies have gained momentum in the context of the Ukraine crisis as EU member states seek to do all they can to reduce the need for imported Russian energy.

But it is divisive because of the upfront costs required to make buildings more efficient, such as spending on improved insulation.

"It (France) supports a reduction of energy use of at least 30 percent and will help to define over the coming weeks how to enforce that," French Energy Minister Ségolène Royal wrote in a letter seen by Reuters.

See also:

eceee publishes discussion paper on binding targets for sustainable energy demand

eceee response on consultation on the 2020 progress and a 2030 energy efficiency policy framework

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EurActiv, 23 Jul 2014: France throws weight behind 30% energy savings goal