Public Consultation: Climate, Energy and Environmental State Aid Guidelines (CEEAG)

EuroACE – Energy Efficient Buildings welcomed the work of the European Commission in revising the Climate, Energy and Environmental State Aid Guidelines (CEEAG). Without a clear boost in the uptake of energy efficiency measures by 2030 and beyond, the EU will miss its -55% GHG reduction target, and the ambition for the uptake of renewable energy sources will be jeopardised too.

The Energy Efficiency First principle should be maintained across the CEEAG. For instance, it should be translated into a general maximum aid intensity ceiling for energy efficiency measures, including in buildings, at least at the same level as the one for renewable energies. This would create a level playing field across different measures aiming at unlocking high energy savings in the building sector.

Investment in energy efficiency entails several positive impacts on the environment and on society at large: for every €1 million invested in energy renovation of buildings, an average of 18 jobs are created in the EU. Health, productivity, comfort and indoor environmental quality are further benefits that Member States should quantify when describing how their aid contributes to EU climate and energy objectives.

Finally, Member States should grant aid to swiftly adapt to newly adopted requirements, especially from the EED and the EPBD, before their entry into force, preparing the internal market to boost investments in energy renovation long before their actual application.