The European Parliament adopted its report on the revision of the EU Energy Efficiency Directive (EED), but this was met with a neutral reaction from Glass for Europe.
Although the outcome of the vote was seen by many observers as positive - addressing potential loopholes - the European trade association representing the flat glass supply chain, concluded that "it still falls short of expectations."
MEPs approved a binding 35% energy efficiency target for 2030 with a large majority - an improvement on the 30% target proposed by the Commission and the Council. The European Parliament has always been supportive of a 40% target, though, which Glass for Europe advocates is the most cost effective.
Bertrand Cazes, Secretary General of Glass for Europe, explained:
"At this level, the cost-effective energy efficiency potential estimated at 40% and in turn the job creation, support to economic growth and decarbonisation potentials of energy efficiency will not be realized to their fullest."
The Parliament also strengthened the annual energy savings obligations included in Article 7 of the EED, which requires EU countries to save 1.5% of energy sold to consumers every year.
Following the Plenary, the legislation will be now negotiated with the Council and the Commission in the coming months. For more information on Glass for Europe, please click here.