Brussels, 01/02/2008 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday 31 January, the European Parliament declared that the target of improving energy efficiency by over 20% by 2020 was “entirely feasible technically and economically”. However, the Commission and member states will have to ensure better application of energy efficiency legislation. The report by Fiona Hall (ALDE, UK) welcoming the energy efficiency action plan, was adopted by 592 votes to 26, with 30 abstentions.
The EP noted with “grave concern” that implementation by member states of existing legislation on energy efficiency was “incomplete and behind schedule”. It pointed out that, of the 21 Commission actions scheduled for completion in 2007, only three had been fully carried out by 1 September 2007 with MEPs critical that a large number of governments of member states had failed “to prioritise full and prompt transposition of and compliance with energy efficiency legislation”.
The EP called on the Commission to set minimum energy performance requirements for all forms of transport. Among other measures called for were charges for driving in town (following London's “congestion charge” lead) and binding annual limits on CO2 emissions from cars. The EP also recommended the introduction of minimum energy performance standards for air conditioning systems ands televisions. MEPs wanted the introduction of binding standards for heating and/or cooling in new buildings. (L.C.)