On 15 October 2024, the event “Energy Efficiency First: Unleashing the water-energy-food nexus” addressed the critical intersections between water, energy, and food systems due to increasing climate change impacts and growing water scarcity. The key objectives included enhancing the understanding of the Water-Energy-Food Nexus, promoting EU policies driving sustainability, and emphasizing cross-sectoral collaboration, particularly through energy efficiency.
Speakers:
Silvia Bartolini – Head of Unit, DG ENV
Carlos Álvarez Aguilera – International Relations Officer, DG ENER
Tania Pentcheva – Director of Europe Government and Industry Relations, Xylem
Patrick Pagani – Team Leader for Sustainable Growth, Copa-Cogeca
Goksen Sahin – Senior Advocacy Officer, ICLEI Europe
During the event, it was stressed the importance of integrating water, energy and food into future planning and policymaking, noting significant gaps in funding, stakeholder coordination and capacity to manage both water scarcity and excess, depending on regional conditions. The discussions underscored that a holistic approach can enhance sustainability and efficiency across these sectors. Investments from both public and private sectors will be crucial, particularly in the EU’s upcoming MFF, which should focus on innovative financing mechanisms and smart technologies.
In a fast-changing political and economic environment, 2025 was a year of continued efforts to strengthen security, stability, and competitiveness for European businesses.
Throughout the year, our work demonstrated that energy efficiency is not only essential to achieving climate goals, but also a key driver of innovation, energy independence and sustainable long-term growth across Europe.
Strong engagement with policymakers, combined with the successful organisation of the 4th European Energy Efficiency Day, highlighted the importance of collaboration and dialogue in advancing shared objectives. Partnerships across sectors and institutions remained central to delivering impact and shaping effective energy policies.
Looking ahead to 2026, we will intensify our efforts to secure the regulatory certainty that can accelerate the energy transition, while providing businesses with the investment confidence they need and strengthening Europe’s competitiveness.
Read the full Activity Report here.