The European Union’s efforts on the international scene to counter climate change and curb over-dependence on fossil fuel are embedded in a pragmatic approach meant to address today’s woes. Action within the Union itself is coupling these efforts.

The activity surrounding energy-efficient measures was very effectively pronounced in these last days with the initiation of two consultation exercises – one on an EU action plan for

offshore wind energy and the other on the directive on energy performance of buildings. Both form part of a multi-pronged approach to reduce the dependence on current energy sources and to use the resources available wisely.

Offshore wind energy is particularly worth exploring in Malta’s case given our geographical position and limitations. It is also the case with a number of other EU Member States. Capturing wind energy away from the mainland could form part of a wider strategy in favour of alternative and renewable resources.

On an EU scale, the target of 20 per cent by 2020 has already been indicated, in the context of combating climate change.

As a possibility, it however faces a number of clear

challenges. By consulting interested stakeholders, the European Commission is seeking to gather ideas on how it could assist in the development of this technology, possibly through more focused measures. The delay in establishing offshore installations has already resulted in a drop in the figures forecast for 2010 with regard to electricity produced by wind power. This should explain the need for better action on this front, if the relevant targets are to be reached.

Closer to home are energy efficient buildings. The 2002 Directive had set a common methodology to calculate the integrated performance of buildings and set minimum standards on the performance of new buildings and those set for major renovation. It also established systems of certification and underlined the regular inspection of central air-conditioning systems as well as assessment on boilers. Both residences and office buildings fall within the scope of Directive 2002/91/EC.

The European Commission is now looking into improving this piece of legislation. According to the Commission services, buildings account for 40 per cent of the Union’s energy use – more than in industry and more than the often touted transport sector. Addressing issues in this sector is bound to leave a substantial impact on the final targets in relation to CO2 emissions and energy source dependence. Effectively, more efficient buildings should result in lower bills – a veritable market incentive considering the current scenario. Again, stakeholders are being invited to send their comments on this front, in the process of recasting the directive.

This bottom-up approach should involve the general public in the tackling of issues which are extremely relevant to today’s environment. The administrative will is there. Both exercises end on 20 June 2008 and may be accessed on http://ec. europa.eu/energy/res/consultation/offshore_wind_

energy_en.htm and http://ec.europa.eu/energy/demand/consultations/buildings_dir_en.htm respectively.

Julian Micallef is Civil Society Coordinator at Forum Malta fl-Ewropa