The Commission's downbeat review came as part of a package of proposals put forward last week to deliver on the EU's objective to slash emissions of greenhouse-gases (GHG) by 20% by 2020 (EurActiv 24/01/08).
According to the Commission, "the plans essentially represent a practical demonstration of the commitment of member states to energy efficiency".
But with 17 plans assessed so far, Brussels says there is a gap between words and political action taken to meet the EU objective of cutting energy consumption by a fifth by 2020. "Although the Action Plans provide some encouragement, there appears to be a gap between the political commitment to energy efficiency and the proposals aimed at facing up to these challenges".
In October last year, the Commission launched infringement proceedings against 12 member states for failing to deliver their action plans. France and Latvia face separate legal action over their failure to introduce legislation on buildings efficiency (EurActiv 18/10/07).
However, some are suggesting that the Commission itself has been placing too little attention on the 20% energy savings target because it is not legally enforceable. Indeed, the energy and climate package last week was dominated by targets on GHG emissions and renewable energies which member states agreed to make legally-binding objectives.
"The 20% energy efficiency target has somehow been dropped," commented one industry source with knowledge of the Commission's internal arrangements.
