Furthermore, the text lacks ambition with regards to developments of synergies and opportunities at the local level. When implementing the Directive, a strong focus on the actual goal – to reduce Europe’s consumption of primary energy – will be needed to organize the energy transition at the local level in terms of future proof and cost-effective energy supply and consumption for the benefit of all citizens.

While the implementation process will be key to judge the effectiveness of this Directive, it is important that the Commission engages now in discussions on the role of energy efficiency and how to address heating and cooling as markets in the post-2020 horizon. Discussions on the future of policies on CO2 and renewables have already started. In line with the undisputed benefits of energy efficiency for the economy and citizens, the European Union needs to continue the effort on the long-term.