EC’s gas security package receives mixed reaction
An Austrian combined heat and power plant. EU rules for gas heating and cooling have been criticised. (Siemens)
The European Commission’s legislative proposal to strengthen Europe’s gas supply security has received broad support from the energy industry but some sticking points remain – particularly regarding the role of gas for heating and cooling.
The package, which was launched on Tuesday, outlines plans to reduce gas consumption in the heating and cooling sector, which it says accounts for 59% of the EU’s use of the fuel – equivalent to 68% of the region’s gas imports. Most of Europe’s buildings are old, which makes them highly energy inefficient. Gas accounts for 46% of the energy used to heat them, while renewables – including solar thermal energy and ambient heat – only account for 1.5%.