Closing the gap, how to advance energy efficiency for EU competitiveness and climate goals

As the European Union grapples with the twin imperatives of climate resilience and energy security, energy efficiency is emerging as a strategic — yet persistently underleveraged — pillar of its green transition.

Despite its potential to curb emissions, reduce reliance on fossil fuel imports, and enhance industrial competitiveness, the bloc remains off track to meet its 2030 efficiency targets.

The European Commission recently warned of a shortfall equivalent to Belgium’s annual energy consumption, highlighting systemic implementation gaps.

While the “Energy Efficiency First” principle is enshrined in EU law, inconsistent enforcement and policy inertia continue to impede progress. Momentum is building for a broader “sufficiency” agenda that prioritises demand-side measures.

Financial innovation will be key: initiatives such as the European Energy Efficiency Financing Coalition aim to unlock capital through public-private collaboration.

As the EU seeks to reconcile climate ambition with economic resilience, scaling up efficiency investments will be critical to delivering on its strategic objectives. This Special Report looks at the dynamics at play.