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Energy

Obligation schemes and alternative measures

Energy efficiency obligation schemes or alternative measures to reduce energy consumption by final consumers.

Under the Energy Efficiency Directive (2012/27/EU), EU countries must set up an energy efficiency obligation scheme. This scheme requires energy companies to achieve yearly energy savings of 1.5% of annual sales to final consumers.

To reach this target, companies need to carry out measures which help final consumers improve energy efficiency. This may include improving the heating system in consumers' homes, installing double glazed windows, or better insulating roofs to reduce energy consumption.

EU countries may also implement alternative policy measures which reduce final energy consumption. These measures could include

  • energy or CO2 taxes
  • financial incentives that lead to an increased use of energy efficient technology
  • regulations or voluntary agreements that lead to the increased use of energy efficient technology
  • energy labelling schemes beyond those that are already mandatory under EU law
  • training and education, including energy advisory programmes

Schemes and alternative measures by country

The schemes and alternative measures were submitted by the Member States from 2012 to 2014, and they refer to the obligation period 2014-2020.