By strengthening investments in clean energy and energy efficiency, the project aims to mitigate the impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on the EU energy sector.
The cooperation with the IEA will cover 7 areas:
- supply and diversification of LNG
- production of biomethane
- stepping up international trade in hydrogen
- acceleration of rooftop solar and heat pumps roll-out
- demand-side measures and energy efficiency
- faster permitting of renewable projects
- innovative hydrogen and renewables solutions for industry
This support is in line with the REPowerEU Plan presented by the Commission on 18 May, outlining how to phase out EU dependence on Russian fossil fuels and accelerate the clean energy transition.
Mario Nava, Director-General for Structural Reform Support, said:
- Meeting the target of cutting our energy reliance on 3rd countries’ fossil fuels requires to mobilise all available means
- Member States can rely on the Commission’s help through the Technical Support instrument and we are pleased to work with a knowledgeable partner such as the IEA to reach that important goal
In April 2022, the Commission and the IEA published a joint Report «Playing my part» to raise European citizens’ awareness of the benefits of energy savings and the importance of putting energy efficiency at the heart of planning and investment.
According to this joint report, by actively carrying out these practical steps both at home and in the workplace, EU citizens can contribute to saving 220 million barrels of oil a year, and around 17 billion m3 of gas.
Fatih Birol, the IEA Executive Director, said:
- The sense of determination across Europe to move rapidly away from Russian fossil fuels is impressive and inspiring
- Clean energy technologies offer the best solutions to deal with the energy affordability and security crises we are witnessing today while also making progress in the fight against climate change