Speaking ahead of the adoption of the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) in the European Parliament today ALDE MEP Fiona Hall (UK, Liberal Democrat) called on Commissioner Oettinger to come forward with additional measures this autumn to achieve the agreed 20% energy saving target by 2020. According to the Commission's own calculations, the EED combined with other proposed new measures on boilers and vehicles - yet to be agreed - will only achieve a 17% energy consumption reduction.

Commenting after the vote, Ms Hall said: 
 
"Today's adoption of the Energy Efficiency Directive is a great achievement. But we simply can't rest on our laurels when it comes to saving energy. Commissioner Oettinger needs to come out with the promised additional measures to close the remaining gap of 3% this autumn.

"Energy efficiency is a key part of economic efficiency. We need to get on with setting out a clear path for further energy savings and ensuring that Member States stick to the measures and targets to which they have signed up." 

"Any savings so far are only on paper and a swift implementation of all measures is  key. The Commission needs to monitor Member states closely and provide a guiding hand if necessary."

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Note to editors:

The Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) steps up action on energy efficiency at all stages of the energy chain; from supply to final consumption. It requires Member States to present an energy efficiency action plan every three years starting in 2014. The Commission will review the situation starting with 2014 and can if necessary propose other measures, including legally binding targets.
The EED also determines specific measures to achieve the desired energy savings:
- Renovation of public buildings
- Energy Efficiency schemes for utilities to achieve a "cumulative end-use energy saving target by 2020"
- Energy audits for companies
- Promoting efficiency in heating and cooling
- Financing facilities for energy efficiency measures