Brussels, 18/06/2015 (Agence Europe) - In a position paper published on Thursday 18 June to coincide with European Sustainable Energy Week and with an eye on the European heating and cooling strategy to be presented by the European Commission in autumn of this year, the European Heat Pump Association (EHPA) calls for the Commission to be “ambitious” in creating the framework around an ever more efficient and renewable-based thermal system fully integrated in smart energy grids.
To get there, the strategy must involve the end consumer and ensure maximum synergies between energy efficiency solutions, various renewable technologies and the aims of a circular economy. In order to be effective, it should leave the technology neutral approach behind and instead be based on encouraging the use of best available solutions, EHPA argues.
“The energy transition is a huge challenge which will require effort and investment. Unleashing financial means needs trust. Investors need clear signs on where to become active. Without a functioning market for energy, a technology-neutral approach will be insufficient in achieving the 2030 climate and energy targets. Instead, using Ecodesign and similar measures can support investments into energy saving technologies and thus deliver quick and sustainable results”, it says.
EHPA calls for regular and objective assessment mechanisms on the performance and potential of various heating and cooling solutions (taking into account the variety of building types and needs and geographical specificities) to be established. (Emmanuel Hagry)