National Energy and Climate Plans: how are European regions progressing?
National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) form an essential part of Europe’s climate strategy which focuses on reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 at the latest.
Drawn up by each European Union member state, the plans set out the required actions and objectives for the decarbonisation of energy systems, with a particular focus on sustainable heating and cooling, energy efficiency and the adoption of renewable energy sources.
However, the success of these policies depends largely on their implementation at local level, where regional partners and communiy partners play a crucial role. So what is the current situation and how are the various nations getting organised?
From the REDI4HEAT project to local energy efficiency
The REDI4HEAT project (funded by the European Union) shows how local projects can support the implementation of NECPs. It focuses on the development of reference frameworks and assessment tools to monitor progress in the decarbonisation of air conditioning systems. By involving national energy agencies, local authorities and relevant organisations, it aims to identify any weaknesses in current strategies and propose solid solutions.
The key idea behind the project is that ‘energy efficiency must be prioritised above all else’, (a principle set out in the EU’s Energy Efficiency Directive). This approach promotes the introduction of measures aimed at optimising efficiency, such as minimum energy performance standards (MEPs) for buldings, an essential instrument in the reduction of energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Further examples of the successful implementation of National Energy and Climate Plans at local level can be found in the Castilla y León region of Spain and the Lörrach district of Germany. Both demonstrate how local authorities can turn European directives into tangible, practical action:
- Castilla y León: this Spanish region, with its harsh climate and prevalently rural economy, has developed an innovative strategy based on a combination of renewable energy sources. The use of heat pumps and solar systems, combined with the introduction of financial incentives and public awareness campaigns, has enabled neighbouring communities to become actively involved. Furthermore, professional training has been fundamental in providing local workers with the specific skills needed and ensuring the long-term success of the projects;
- Lörrach: the German district of Lörrach has adopted an integral approach to the planning of heating and cooling systems, in line with both national regulations and the EU Energy Efficiency Directive. By mapping existing heating systems and identifying opportunities for the use of renewable energy sources, targeted solutions have been introduced, such as district heating and geothermal energy. Cooperation between local councils, service providers and private companies has been essential to ensure the success of these ventures.
The role of European directives in National Energy and Climate Plans
European directives such as the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), the EED and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), provide a legislative framework for NECPs. These policies promote not only the reduction of emissions, but also improved energy efficiency and the adoption of innovative technologies.
The EPBD for example, requires member states to establish minimum standards for the energy performance of buildings. These standards help reduce energy consumption and encourage the use of sustainable solutions, such as advanced heat insulation and high efficiency heating and cooling systems.
Looking to the future, National Energy and Climate Plans will continue to evolve in order to meet emerging challenges and seize opportunities offered by the green energy transition. Considering that the target is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, the successful coordination of national policies and local projects will prove essential.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
