In a joint letter to the European Commission dated Monday 22 January, a number of sectoral organisations, NGOs and think tanks expressed their concern at the decision to postpone the action plan on heat pumps.
The plan was expected to published in the first quarter of 2024, but this has been postponed until after the European elections in June.
“Throwing all these stakeholders into uncertainty by delaying the plan is exactly the opposite of what is needed,” according to the signatories, who are calling on the European Commission to publish the plan as soon as possible.
“Long-term policy signals, and clarity about the shift from fossil fuels to sustainable heating are crucial to reassure consumers, the industry and all segments of society, including the most vulnerable, to ensure the energy transition”, they continue.
According to the signatory organisations, heat pumps play a crucial role in achieving the EU’s goals of energy independence and reducing emissions, as heating and cooling account for half of Europe’s energy consumption and 38% of CO2 emissions.
To see the letter: https://aeur.eu/f/aix (Original version in French by Pauline Denys)