Industry coalition urges EU to prioritise energy efficiency
Belgium –
A coalition of 33 industry bodies, including the European Heat Pump Association, has called on the European Commission to place energy efficiency at the centre of its response to growing energy security risks.
In a joint letter addressed to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the signatories argue that efficiency should be treated as a “home-grown resource” capable of rapidly reducing the EU’s dependence on imported energy. They state that the bloc currently imports around 57% of its primary energy, adding that this figure would have been significantly higher without efficiency gains made since 2000.
The letter highlights that existing technologies, many already developed within Europe, can be deployed immediately across buildings, industry and transport to cut demand, improve system performance and reduce costs. The group says these measures offer short payback periods in the context of rising fossil fuel prices.
Focus on electrification and buildings
The coalition points to significant untapped potential in electrification, noting that around 60% of industrial heat demand could already be electrified using existing solutions, rising to 90% by 2035 as technologies mature. In buildings, it suggests that available products and systems could reduce energy demand by up to 80%, while improving comfort and lowering bills.
The technologies exist. The economic case is clear. The strategic necessity is undeniable
Joint industry letter to the European Commission, 15 April 2026
Energy efficiency is also framed as a key enabler of wider electrification, supporting faster decarbonisation while reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. The group argues that failing to prioritise efficiency in the current geopolitical context would be difficult to justify economically or politically.
The letter follows recent statements from the Commission signalling a stronger focus on efficiency in upcoming policy communications. The signatories say they are ready to support the development of a cross-sector action plan, including accelerated implementation of existing legislation and faster permitting and financing mechanisms.
