Industry call to support the Energy Efficiency First principle as a cornerstone of the EU Climate Law

Efficient Buildings Europe, together with 67 companies and 26 associations, addresses the Danish Presidency of the Council, the Permanent Representations of Member States, Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra (Climate, Net Zero & Clean Growth) and Commissioner Dan Jørgensen (Energy & Housing).

Our message is clear: the amended EU Climate Law must preserve strong ambitions for 2040 with the Energy Efficiency First (EE1st) principle at its core.

Energy efficiency is essential for the European energy and climate goals. Our industry already:

• Provides 1.2 million local jobs in Europe, more than 6.5 million when including the broader building renovation supply chain.
• Generates €150 billion turnover annually.
• Cuts grid costs, lowers household bills, supports electrification and boosts renewables.

That’s why we are calling on EU policymakers to:

• Keep the EE1st principle as the cornerstone of the Climate Law.
• Recognise energy efficiency as a driver of competitiveness, affordability, security and climate goals.
• Ensure a secure, flexible, and fully decarbonised energy system for Europe.

The efficient buildings industry is ready to deliver.