As Bertrand Piccard aptly put it during the last Energy Efficiency Day, “Energy efficiency and renewables are the two legs on which we must walk to achieve a sustainable future.” This dual approach is essential for the EU’s energy and climate policy, perfectly aligning with the European Alliance to Save Energy’s (EU-ASE) advocacy for a sustainable, energy-efficient Europe.

According to the latest International Energy Agency (IEA) report, global electricity demand surged by 4.3% in 2024, driven by record temperatures, electrification, and digitalisation. This increase highlights the urgent need for enhanced energy efficiency and a robust expansion of renewable energy sources to meet growing demands sustainably.

Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in mitigating energy consumption and reducing emissions. By using less energy to perform the same tasks, we can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions from both direct fossil fuel combustion and indirect electricity generation. Investments in energy-efficient technologies can lower operational costs for businesses, making them more competitive in the global market. For households, energy efficiency means lower utility bills and improved comfort.

On a broader scale, energy efficiency can stimulate economic growth by creating jobs in the energy sector and related industries. Key events like the 10th International Energy Agency Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency in Brussels this June and the Summit on the Future of Energy Security hosted by the UK government in London at the end of April can offer a great platform to elaborate the new energy efficiency objectives.

The importance of a continuous and structured dialogue between European and national institutions with business leaders cannot be overstated. The energy efficiency industrial ecosystem significantly contributes to the European economy, with notable impacts on annual turnover, employment, and patent ownership. This ongoing communication is crucial for aligning policies, sharing best practices, unlock financial resources and fostering innovation.

Mario Giordano
Head of Global Public and Government Affairs  
Signify