### promoting low - carbon strategies for urban areas ; ### promoting low - carbon strategies for all types of territories , in particular urban areas , including land based measures delivering both on mitigation and adaptation objectives ;


### action to improve the urban environment , including regeneration of brownfield sites and reduction of air pollution ; ### action to improve the urban environment , including regeneration of deprived urban and outlying areas and brownfield sites and reduction of air pollution ;


### development of business incubators and investment support for self - employment and business creation ; ### development of business incubators and investment support for innovative companies , self - employment and business creation ;


### investing in education , skills and lifelong learning by developing education and training infrastructure ; ### investing in education , skills , lifelong learning and culture by developing education and training infrastructure and promoting cultural heritage ;


### the substances covered by this directive are scientifically well researched and evaluated and have been subject to different measures both at community and at national level . ### the substances covered by this directive are in part scientifically well researched and evaluated and have been subject to different measures both at community and at national level – in part such work still needs to be undertaken prior to decisions on possible restrictions and / or other measures .


### this directive does not apply to : ### unless specifically mentioned in annex ii , this directive does not apply to :


### ' manufacturer” means any natural or legal person who manufactures an eee or who has an eee designed or manufactured under his name or trademark ; ### “manufacturer” means any natural or legal person who manufactures an eee or has an eee designed or manufactured , or who markets that product under his name or trademark ;


### new kics will be set up in areas of large societal challenges which offer a true innovation potential . the eit thereby fully contributes to the goals of the larger eu policy agenda and in particular to the objectives of horizon 2020 , which identifies a number of large societal challenges , and enabling and industrial technologies . the objective is to set up kics in thematic areas which , due to their magnitude and complex nature , can only be addressed through a cross - disciplinary , cross - border , and cross - sectoral approach . the selection of the thematic fields therefore needs to be based on a careful analysis as to whether a kic can bring true added value and have a positive impact on economy and society . ### new kics will be set up in areas of large societal challenges which offer a true innovation potential . the eit thereby fully contributes to the goals of the larger eu policy agenda and in particular to the objectives of horizon 2020 , which identifies a number of large societal challenges , and enabling and industrial technologies . the objective is to set up kics in thematic areas which , due to their magnitude and complex nature , can only be addressed through a cross - disciplinary , cross - border , and cross - sectoral approach . the selection of the thematic fields therefore needs to be based on a careful analysis as to whether a kic can bring true added value and have a positive impact on economy and society . allocation of funds for new kics shall be provided on a competitive basis and taking into consideration the quality and potential of the projects , while ensuring enough funding for each kic to actually deliver innovation .


### having regard to the treaty on the functioning of the european union , and in particular the third paragraph of article 175 , as well as articles 42 and 43 thereof , ### having regard to the treaty on the functioning of the european union , and in particular the third paragraph of article 175 ,


### when drawing up the coordinated package of active labour market policy measures , member states should favour measures that will significantly contribute to the employability of the redundant workers . member states should strive towards the reintegration into employment or new activities of at least 50 % of the targeted workers within 12 months of the date of application . ### when drawing up the coordinated package of active labour market policy measures , member states should favour measures that will significantly contribute to the employability of the redundant workers . the measures should also be designed taking into account the objectives of the europe 2020 strategy and their implementation in the national and regional strategies . member states should strive towards the reintegration into employment or new activities of at least 50 % of the workers participating in the measures . the rate should be measured at the end of the implementation period .


### to facilitate the implementation of this regulation , expenditure should be eligible either from the date on which a member state incurs administrative expenditure for implementing the egf or from the date on which a member state starts to provide personalised services or , in the case of farmers , from the date set in a commission act in accordance with article 4 . ### to facilitate the implementation of this regulation , expenditure should be eligible either from the date on which a member state incurs administrative expenditure for implementing the egf or from the date on which a member state starts to provide personalised services .


### the aim of the egf shall be to contribute to economic growth and employment in the union by enabling the union to show solidarity towards workers made redundant as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation , trade agreements affecting agriculture , or an unexpected crisis , and to provide financial support for their rapid reintegration into employment , or for changing or adjusting their agricultural activities . ### the aim of the egf shall be to contribute to economic growth and employment in the union by enabling the union to show solidarity towards workers made redundant as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation , or an unexpected crisis , and to provide financial support for their rapid reintegration into employment or for changing their activities .


### for owner - managers of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises and self - employed workers , the redundancy shall be counted either from the date of cessation of the activities caused by any of the conditions set out in article 2 , and determined in accordance with national law or administrative provisions , or from the date specified by the commission in the delegated act adopted in accordance with the article 4 . ### for owner - managers of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises and self - employed workers , the redundancy shall be counted either from the date of cessation or change of the activities caused by any of the conditions set out in article 2 , and determined in accordance with national law or administrative provisions .


### the estimated budget for each of the components of the coordinated package of personalised services in support of the targeted workers ; ### the estimated budget and description of the components of the coordinated package of personalised services in support of the targeted workers ;


### support for redundant workers shall complement actions of the member states at national , regional and local level . ### support for redundant workers shall complement actions of the member states at national , regional and local level including those financed by union funds .


### the commission and the member states shall ensure that equality between men and women and the integration of the gender perspective are promoted during the various stages of the implementation of the financial contribution . the commission and the member state shall take appropriate steps to prevent any discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , sexual orientation and type of contract of employment or employment relationship in access to and during the various stages of the implementation of the financial contribution . ### the commission and the member states shall ensure that equality between men and women and the integration of the gender perspective are an integral part of and are fully promoted during the various stages of the implementation of the financial contribution . the commission and the member state shall take all appropriate steps to prevent any discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , sexual orientation and type of contract of employment or employment relationship in access to and during the various stages of the implementation of the financial contribution .


### the commission shall set up an internet site , available in all union languages , to provide information on the egf , guidance on the submission of applications , and information on accepted and rejected applications , highlighting the role of the budgetary authority . ### the commission shall maintain and update regularly an internet site , accessible in all union languages , to provide information on the egf , guidance on the submission of applications , and information on accepted and rejected applications and on the role of the budgetary authority .


### the member state shall carry out the eligible actions set out in article 6 as soon as possible , but not later than 24 months after the date of the application , pursuant to article 8 . ### the member state shall carry out the eligible actions set out in article 7 as soon as possible , but not later than 24 months after the date of the application , pursuant to article 8 . however , where a redundant worker accesses an educational or training course whose duration is two years or longer , the fees / tuition costs for two years will be covered when the redundant worker accesses the course at the next available semester provided that is not later than one year after the date of the application .


### expenditure pursuant to article 7 shall be eligible until the deadline for submission of the report . ### expenditure pursuant to article 7 shall be eligible until the deadline for submission of the final report .


### no later than 15 months after the date of the application pursuant to article 8 or by the date laid down in the delegated act taken in accordance with article 4 the member state shall present an interim report to the commission on the implementation of the financial contribution , including on the funding , timing and type of actions already carried out and on the rate of reintegration into employment or new activities achieved 12 months after the date of the application . ### no later than 18 months after the date of the application pursuant to article 8 the member state shall present an interim report to the commission on the implementation of the financial contribution , including on the funding , timing and type of actions already carried out and on the rate of reintegration into employment or new activities achieved 15 months after the date of the application .


### biennial report ### annual report


### by 1 august of every second year year , and for the first time in 2015 , the commission shall present to the european parliament and to the council a quantitative and qualitative report on the activities under this regulation and regulation 1927 / 2006 in the previous two years . the report shall focus mainly on the results achieved by the egf and shall in particular contain information relating to applications submitted , decisions adopted , actions funded , including their complementarity with actions funded by other union funds , notably the european social fund and the european agricultural fund for rural development , and the winding - up of financial contributions made . it should also document those applications that have been rejected or reduced owing to a lack of sufficient appropriations or to non - eligibility . ### by 1 august of every second year , and for the first time in 2015 , the commission shall present to the european parliament and to the council a comprehensive , quantitative and qualitative report on the activities under this regulation and regulation no 1927 / 2006 in the previous two years . the report shall focus mainly on the results achieved by the egf and shall in particular contain information relating to applications submitted , decisions adopted , the number of workers who are supported and who find stable employment within one year from the date of application , actions funded , including their complementarity with actions funded by other union funds , notably the european social fund and the european agricultural fund for rural development , and the winding - up of financial contributions made . it should also document those applications that have been rejected or reduced owing to a lack of sufficient appropriations or to non - eligibility .


### the report shall be transmitted for information to the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the social partners . ### the report shall be transmitted for information to the court of auditors , the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the social partners .


### the results of the evaluation shall be transmitted , for information , to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the social partners . ### the results of the evaluation shall be transmitted , for information , to the european parliament , the council , the court of auditors , the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the social partners . the recommendations of the evaluation should be taken into account for the design of new programmes in the area of employment and social affairs .


### ensuring that expenditure funded is based on verifiable supporting documents , and is correct and regular ; ### ensuring that expenditure funded is based on verifiable supporting documents , and is legal and regular ;


### the commission , in its responsibility for the implementation of the general budget of the european union , shall take every step necessary to verify that the actions financed are carried out in accordance with the principles of sound and efficient financial management . it is the responsibility of the applicant member state to ensure that it has smoothly functioning management and control systems . the commission shall satisfy itself that such systems are in place . ### the commission , in its responsibility for the implementation of the general budget of the european union , shall take every step necessary to verify that the actions financed are carried out in accordance with the principles of sound and efficient financial management . it is the responsibility of the applicant member state to ensure that it has smoothly functioning management and control systems . the commission shall satisfy itself that such systems are in place . if irregularities are detected , amounts wrongly paid should be recovered primarily by offsetting . where appropriate , the protection of the union ' s financial interests in accordance with article 325 of the treaty may include effective , proportional and deterrent penalties .


### in cases where the amount of the actual cost of an action is less than the estimated amount quoted pursuant to article 15 , the commission shall adopt a decision , by means of an implementing act , requiring the member state to reimburse the corresponding amount of the financial contribution received . ### in cases where the amount of the actual cost of an action is less than the estimated amount quoted pursuant to article 15 and recovering by offsetting is not feasible , the commission shall adopt implementing acts requiring the member state to reimburse the corresponding amount of the financial contribution received .


### the delegations of power referred to in this regulation shall be conferred for an indeterminate period of time from the date of entry into force of this regulation . ### the delegations of power referred to in this regulation shall be conferred for the period that this regulation is in force .


### the data exchanged during communication shall be limited to the data necessary for the purpose of targeted roadside checks . data concerning the identity of the driver , driver activities and speed shall not be communicated . ### the data exchanged during communication shall be limited to the data necessary for the purpose of targeted roadside checks . it should include driver activities and speed . data concerning the identity of the driver shall not be communicated .


### for the purpose of paragraph 1 , vehicles put into service for the first time [ 48 months after the entry into force of this regulation ] shall be fitted with recording equipment equipped with a harmonised interface allowing the data recorded or produced to be used for intelligent transport systems applications . ### for the purpose of paragraph 1 , the commission shall submit an impact assessment on the deployment of the technical specifications referred to in this article , with a view to proposing a directive on the incorporation into the tachograph of a harmonised interface allowing the data recorded or produced to be used by a specified set of intelligent transport systems applications , in order to help drivers to comply with social security legislation , while ensuring that the primary functions of the tachograph are retained and that the data are protected .


### the commission shall adopt decisions on the methodology for the initial and continuing training of control officers , including on techniques to target controls and to detect manipulation devices and fraud . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 40 . ### the commission shall adopt decisions on the methodology for the initial and continuing training of control officers on the basis of minimum harmonised requirements as set out in paragraph 3a . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 40 .


### an increased number of new or improved medical interventions for hiv / aids , tuberculosis , malaria and other poverty - related diseases , and by the end of the programme to have delivered at least one new medical intervention ; to have issued at least 30 guidelines for improved or extended use of existing medical interventions ; and to have progressed the clinical development of at least 20 candidate medical interventions ; ### an increased number of new or improved medical interventions for poverty related diseases such as hiv / aids , tuberculosis , and malaria , and other poverty - related and neglected diseases , and by the end of the programme to have delivered at least one new medical intervention ; to have issued guidelines for improved or extended use of existing medical interventions ; and to have progressed the clinical development of candidate medical interventions ;


### an increased impact due to effective cooperation with relevant european union initiatives , including its development assistance . ### an increased impact due to effective cooperation with relevant european union initiatives , including its development assistance , and with other initiatives working to improve research into poverty related and neglected diseases , including for example product development partnerships , the world health organisation and its consultative expert working group , and other programmes .


### target : increase the number of supported clinical trials to at least 150 compared to 88 under edctp1 . ### target : increase the number of supported clinical trials , compared to 88 under edctp1 , with a focus on clinical trials to develop new medical tools .


### target : increase the number of peer - reviewed scientific articles published to at least 1000 . ### target : increase the number of peer - reviewed scientific articles published .


### target : sustain or increase the number of sub - saharan african countries supported by the edctp2 to at least 30 . ### target : sustain or increase the number of sub - saharan african countries supported by the edctp2 .


### target : increase the number of fellowships to sub - saharan african researchers and msc / phd students to at least 600 compared to 400 under edctp1 , with at least 90 % of them continuing their research career in sub - sahara africa for at least one year after their fellowship . ### target : increase the number of fellowships to sub - saharan african researchers and msc / phd students from 400 under edctp1 , strongly encouraging and supporting them to continue their research career in sub - sahara africa following their fellowship .


### target : increase the number of capacity - building activities supported for conducting clinical trials in sub - saharan africa to at least 150 compared to 74 under edctp1 . ### target : increase the number of capacity - building activities supported for conducting clinical trials in sub - saharan africa from 74 under edctp1 .


### promoting networking , coordination , alignment , cooperation and integration of national research programmes and activities on poverty - related infectious diseases at scientific , management and financial level ; ### promoting networking , coordination , alignment , open collaboration , cooperation and integration of national research programmes and activities on poverty - related and neglected diseases at scientific , management and financial level ;


### supporting clinical trial research and related activities on poverty - related diseases , in particular hiv / aids , malaria , tuberculosis and neglected infectious diseases ; ### supporting clinical trial research and related activities on poverty - related diseases , in particular hiv / aids , malaria and tuberculosis , and other poverty related and neglected diseases ;


### an annual report shall be provided by edctp2 - is , which shall give a detailed overview of the implementation of the edctp2 programme . that overview shall provide information on each activity selected in accordance with the work plan , including indirect actions selected through calls for proposals managed by edctp - is . such information shall include a description of each activity , including indirect action , its budget , the value of the funding allocated to it if any , and its status . ### an annual report shall be provided by edctp2 - is , which shall give a detailed overview of the implementation of the edctp2 programme . that overview shall provide information on each activity selected in accordance with the work plan , including indirect actions selected through calls for proposals managed by edctp - is . such information shall include a description of each activity , including indirect action , its budget , the value of the funding allocated to it if any , its status , and measures taken to ensure access to emerging products for populations in developing countries .


### with regards to calls managed by edctp - is , the annual report shall moreover include information on the number of projects submitted and selected for funding , the detailed use of the union financial contribution , the distribution of national and other contributions , the types of participants , country statistics , brokerage events and dissemination activities . ### with regards to calls managed by edctp - is , the annual report shall moreover include information on the number of projects submitted and selected for funding , the detailed use of the union financial contribution , the distribution of national and other contributions , the types of participants , country statistics , brokerage events , dissemination activities , and measures taken to ensure access to emerging products .


### providing support to strengthen european operators and international cultural networks in order to facilitate access to professional opportunities . ### providing support to strengthen european operators and international cultural networks in order to facilitate access to professional opportunities , to vocational training and to mobility for the operators .


### facilitate access to professional audiovisual trade events and markets and the use of online business tools inside and outside europe ; ### facilitate access to professional audiovisual trade events , markets and training courses and the use of online business tools inside and outside europe ;


### – internationalisation of cultural operators and the number of transnational partnerships created ; ### – internationalisation and mobility of cultural operators and the number of transnational partnerships created ;


### the union is facing unprecedented challenges resulting from increased dependence on energy imports and scarce energy resources , and the need to limit climate change and to overcome the economic crisis . energy efficiency is a valuable means to address these challenges . it improves the union ' s security of supply by reducing primary energy consumption and decreasing energy imports . it helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a cost - effective way and thereby to mitigate climate change . shifting to a more energy - efficient economy should also accelerate the spread of innovative technological solutions and improve the competitiveness of industry in the union , boosting economic growth and creating high quality jobs in several sectors related to energy efficiency . ### the union is facing unprecedented challenges resulting from increased dependence on energy imports and scarce energy resources , and the need to limit climate change and to overcome the economic crisis . energy efficiency is a valuable means to address these challenges . it improves the union ' s security of supply by reducing primary energy consumption and decreasing energy imports . it helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a cost - effective way and thereby to mitigate climate change . shifting to a more energy - efficient economy should also accelerate the spread of innovative technological solutions and improve the competitiveness of industry in the union , boosting economic growth and creating high quality jobs in several sectors related to energy efficiency , that can be defendable in the medium and long term in terms of global competition .


### the rate of building renovation needs to be increased , as the existing building stock represents the single biggest potential sector for energy savings . moreover , buildings are crucial to achieving the eu objective of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80 - 95% by 2050 compared to 1990 . buildings owned by public bodies account for a considerable share of the building stock and have high visibility in public life . it is therefore appropriate to set an annual rate of renovation of all buildings owned by public bodies to upgrade their energy performance . this renovation rate should be without prejudice to the obligations with regard to nearly - zero energy buildings set in directive 2010 / 31 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 19 may 2010 on the energy performance of buildings . the obligation to renovate public buildings complements the provisions of that directive , which requires member states to ensure that when existing buildings undergo major renovation their energy performance is upgraded so that they meet minimum energy performance requirements . ### the rate of building renovation needs to be increased , as the existing building stock represents the single biggest potential sector for energy savings . moreover , buildings are crucial to achieving the eu objective of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80 - 95% by 2050 compared to 1990 . buildings owned by public bodies account for a considerable share of the building stock and have high visibility in public life . it is therefore appropriate for each member state to lay down its own cost - effective and otherwise sound energy - saving and energy efficiency measures as regards buildings owned by public bodies in order to upgrade their energy performance . this renovation rate should be without prejudice to the obligations with regard to nearly - zero energy buildings set in directive 2010 / 31 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 19 may 2010 on the energy performance of buildings . energy - saving and energy efficiency measures for public buildings complement the provisions of that directive , which requires member states to ensure that when existing buildings undergo major renovation their energy performance is upgraded so that they meet minimum energy performance requirements . building materials also play a crucial role , as an increasingly substantial proportion of the total energy consumption accounted for by buildings arises at the construction stage . promoting the use of low - emission building materials , such as wood , on a europe - wide scale would reduce the environmental burden resulting from construction .


### to tap the energy savings potential in certain market segments where energy audits are generally not offered commercially , member states should ensure that energy audits are available . energy audits should be mandatory and regular for large enterprises , as energy savings can be significant . ### to tap the energy savings potential in certain market segments where energy audits are generally not offered commercially , member states should ensure that energy audits are available and affordable . energy audits should be mandatory and regular for large enterprises , as energy savings can be significant .


### most eu businesses are small and medium - sized enterprises . they represent an enormous energy saving potential for the eu . to help them adopt energy efficiency measures , member states should establish a favourable framework aimed at providing smes with technical assistance and targeted information . ### most eu businesses are small and medium - sized enterprises . they represent an enormous energy saving potential for the eu . to help them adopt energy efficiency measures , member states should establish a favourable framework aimed at providing smes with technical assistance , targeted information and simplified procedures and application forms for applying for funds and / or inclusion in the national energy grid .


### a sufficient number of reliable professionals competent in the field of energy efficiency should be available to ensure the effective and timely implementation of this directive , for instance as regards compliance with the requirements on energy audits and implementation of energy efficiency obligation schemes . member states should therefore put in place certification schemes for the providers of energy services , energy audits and other energy efficiency improvement measures . ### a sufficient number of reliable qualified professionals competent in the field of energy efficiency should be available to ensure the effective and timely implementation of this directive , for instance as regards compliance with the requirements on energy audits and implementation of energy efficiency obligation schemes . member states should therefore put in place certification schemes for the providers of energy services , energy audits and other energy efficiency improvement measures .


### a sufficient number of reliable professionals competent in the field of energy efficiency should be available to ensure the effective and timely implementation of this directive , for instance as regards compliance with the requirements on energy audits and implementation of energy efficiency obligation schemes . member states should therefore put in place certification schemes for the providers of energy services , energy audits and other energy efficiency improvement measures . ### a sufficient number of reliable professionals competent in the field of energy efficiency should be available to ensure the effective and timely implementation of this directive , for instance as regards compliance with the requirements on energy audits and implementation of energy efficiency obligation schemes . member states should therefore put in place certification schemes for the providers of energy services , energy audits and other energy efficiency improvement measures . member states should ensure compliance with mandatory milestone requirements for certification , proposed by the commission .


### in order to permit adaptation to technical progress and changes in the distribution of energy sources , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of certain matters . it will be of particular importance that the commission carry out consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . ### in order to permit adaptation to technical progress and changes in the distribution of energy sources , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of certain matters . the commission shall carry out consultations during its preparatory work , including with the corresponding committee at the european parliament , and at expert level .


### it lays down rules designed to remove barriers in the energy market and overcome market failures that impede efficiency in the supply and use of energy , and provides for the establishment of national energy efficiency targets for 2020 . ### it lays down rules designed to remove barriers in the energy market and overcome market failures that impede efficiency in the supply and use of energy , especially as regards small consumers , small and micro enterprises and perverse incentives for large energy producers promoting energy efficiency , and provides for the establishment of national energy efficiency targets for 2020 .


### ‘ energy audit’ means a systematic procedure to obtain adequate knowledge of the existing energy consumption profile of a building or group of buildings , an industrial or commercial operation or installation or a private or public service , identify and quantify cost - effective energy savings opportunities , and report the findings ; ### ‘ energy audit’ means a systematic procedure to obtain adequate knowledge of the existing energy consumption profile of a building or group of buildings , an industrial or commercial operation or installation or a private or public service , identify and quantify cost - effective energy savings opportunities , taking into account health impacts , and report the findings ;


### ‘ energy performance contracting’ means a contractual arrangement between the beneficiary and the provider of an energy efficiency improvement measure , according to which the payment for the investment made by the provider is in relation to a contractually agreed level of energy efficiency improvement or other agreed energy performance criterion , such as financial savings ; ### ' energy performance contracting ' means a contractual arrangement between the beneficiary and the provider of an energy efficiency improvement measure , verified and monitored during the whole term of the contract , where investments in that measure are paid for in relation to a contractually agreed level of energy efficiency improvement or other agreed energy performance criterion .


### member states shall set a national energy efficiency target expressed as an absolute level of primary energy consumption in 2020 . when setting these targets , they shall take into account the union ' s target of 20&#160 ; % energy savings , the measures provided for in this directive , the measures adopted to reach the national energy saving targets adopted pursuant to article 4 of directive 2006 / 32 / ec and other measures to promote energy efficiency within member states and at union level . ### member states shall set a national energy efficiency target expressed as an absolute level of either final energy or primary energy consumption in 2020 . when setting these targets , they shall take into account the union ' s target of 20&#160 ; % energy savings , the measures provided for in this directive , the measures adopted to reach the national energy saving targets adopted pursuant to article 4 of directive 2006 / 32 / ec and other measures to promote energy efficiency within member states and at union level . measures reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy shall in addition be taken into account .


### put in place an energy management system as part of the implementation of their plan . ### put in place an energy management system as part of the implementation of their plan . the energy efficiency plan and management system shall take due account of health risks and beneficial measures .


### member states opting for this option shall notify to the commission , by 1 january 2013 at the latest , the alternative measures that they plan to adopt , including the rules on penalties referred to in article 9 , and demonstrating how they would achieve the required amount of savings . the commission may refuse such measures or make suggestions for modifications in the 3 months following notification . in such cases , the alternative approach shall not be applied by the member state concerned until the commission expressly accepts the resubmitted or modified draft measures . ### member states opting for this option shall notify to the commission , no later than two years from the date of adoption of this directive , the alternative measures that they plan to adopt , including the rules on penalties referred to in article 9 , and demonstrating how they would achieve the required amount of savings .


### member states shall ensure that enterprises not included in the second subparagraph of paragraph 1 are subject to an energy audit carried out in an independent and cost - effective manner by qualified or accredited experts at the latest by 30 june 2014 and every three years from the date of the previous energy audit . ### member states shall ensure that enterprises not included in the second subparagraph of paragraph 1 are subject to an energy audit carried out in an independent and cost - effective manner by qualified and / or accredited experts at the latest by 30 june 2014 and every three years from the date of the previous energy audit . audits may be carried out by in - house experts , provided that these are qualified and accredited , that they are not directly engaged in the activity audited , and that the member state has put in place a scheme to assure and check their quality .


### energy audits carried out in an independent manner resulting from energy management systems or implemented under voluntary agreements concluded between organisations of stakeholders and an appointed body and supervised by the member state concerned or by the commission , shall be considered as fulfilling the requirements of paragraph 2 . ### energy audits carried out in an independent manner resulting from energy management systems or implemented under voluntary agreements concluded between organisations of stakeholders and an appointed body and supervised by the member state concerned or by the commission , shall be considered as fulfilling the requirements of paragraph 2 . the requirement for independence allows the audits to be carried out by in - house experts , provided that these are qualified or accredited , that they are not directly engaged in the activity audited , and that the member state has put in place a scheme to assure and check their quality and to impose sanctions if needed .


### energy audits may stand alone or be part of a broader environmental audit . ### energy audits may stand alone or be part of a broader environmental audit . as a minimum requirement , such audits shall include a health impact assessment .


### member states shall ensure that final customers for electricity , natural gas , district heating or cooling and district - supplied domestic hot water are provided with individual meters that accurately measure and allow to make available their actual energy consumption and provide information on actual time of use , in accordance with annex vi . ### member states shall ensure that final customers for electricity , natural gas , district heating or cooling and district - supplied domestic hot water are provided with individual meters that accurately measure and allow to make available their actual energy consumption and provide information on actual time of use , in accordance with annex vi . meters must be cost - effective and must improve the energy efficiency of households .


### by 1 january 2014 , member states shall establish and notify to the commission a national heating and cooling plan for developing the potential for the application of high - efficiency cogeneration and efficient district heating and cooling , containing the information set out in annex vii . the plans shall be updated and notified to the commission every five years . member states shall ensure by means of their regulatory framework that national heating and cooling plans are taken into account in local and regional development plans , including urban and rural spatial plans , and fulfil the design criteria in annex vii . ### by 1 january 2014 , member states shall establish and notify to the commission a national heating and cooling map by means of which it is possible to find and develop cogeneration and district heating and cooling more effectively , containing the information set out in annex vii . the plans shall be updated and notified to the commission every five years .


### member states shall establish mechanisms to ensure the connection of these installations to district heating and cooling networks . they may require these installations to bear the connection charges and the cost of developing the district heating and cooling networks necessary to transport their waste heat to consumers . ### member states shall establish mechanisms to ensure the connection of these installations to district heating and cooling networks if this is rational from a cost - effectiveness point of view . they may require these installations to bear the connection charges and the cost of developing the district heating and cooling networks necessary to transport their waste heat to consumers .


### member states shall establish mechanisms to ensure the connection of these installations to district heating and cooling networks . they may require these installations to bear the connection charges and the cost of developing the district heating and cooling networks necessary to transport their waste heat to consumers . ### member states shall establish mechanisms taking into account the technical management and the economic balance of the dhn to ensure the connection of these installations to district heating and cooling networks . they may require these installations to bear the connection charges and the cost of developing the district heating and cooling networks necessary to transport their waste heat to consumers .


### member states shall ensure that , subject to requirements relating to the maintenance of the reliability and safety of the grid , based on transparent and non - discriminatory criteria defined by the competent national authorities , transmission system operators and distribution system operators in their territory : ### member states shall ensure that , subject to requirements relating to the maintenance of the reliability and safety of the grid , based on transparent and non - discriminatory criteria defined by the competent national authorities and in compliance with the criteria harmonized at eu level , transmission system operators and distribution system operators in their territory :


### member states shall make publicly available the certification schemes or equivalent qualification schemes referred to in paragraph 1 and shall cooperate among themselves and with the commission on comparisons between and recognition of the schemes . ### member states shall make publicly available the qualification schemes referred to in paragraph 1 and shall work on comparisons between and recognition of the schemes . this shall be without prejudice to directive 2005 / 36 / ec .


### where a product is covered by a delegated act adopted under directive 2010 / 30 / eu or commission directive implementing directive 92 / 75 / eec , purchase only the products that comply with the criterion of belonging to the highest energy efficiency class while taking into account cost - effectiveness , economical feasibility and technical suitability , as well as sufficient competition ; ### where a product is covered by a delegated act adopted under directive 2010 / 30 / eu or commission directive implementing directive 92 / 75 / eec , purchase only the products that comply with the criterion of belonging to the highest energy efficiency class while taking into account cost - effectiveness , health impact , economical feasibility and technical suitability , as well as sufficient competition ;


### require in their tenders for service contracts that service providers use , for the purposes of providing the services in question , only products that comply with the requirements referred to in points to , when providing the services in question ; ### require in their tenders for service contracts that service providers use , for the purposes of providing the services in question , only products that comply with the requirements referred to in points to , when providing the services in question . when tendering service contracts , public bodies shall assess the possibility of concluding long term energy performance contracts as referred to in article 14 .


### new residential zones or new industrial plants which consume heat in their production processes are located in sites where a maximum amount of their heat demand will be met by the available waste heat , as identified in national heating and cooling plans . to ensure an optimal matching between demand and supply for heat and cooling , spatial plans shall favour the clustering of a number of industrial plants in the same location ; ### an effort is made to locate new residential zones or new industrial plants which consume heat in their production processes in sites where a maximum amount of their heat demand will be met by the available waste heat , as identified in the national heating and cooling map . to ensure an optimal matching between demand and supply for heat and cooling , spatial plans shall favour the clustering of a number of industrial plants in the same location ;


### new residential zones or new industrial plants which consume heat in their production processes are located in sites where a maximum amount of their heat demand will be met by the available waste heat , as identified in national heating and cooling plans . to ensure an optimal matching between demand and supply for heat and cooling , spatial plans shall favour the clustering of a number of industrial plants in the same location ; ### new residential or tertiary zones , new public or tertiary building or new industrial plants which consume heat in their production processes are located in sites where a maximum amount of their heat demand will be met by the available waste heat , as identified in national heating and cooling plans . to ensure an optimal matching between demand and supply for heat and cooling , spatial plans shall favour the clustering of a number of industrial plants in the same location ;


### residential zones and industrial plants which consume heat in their production processes are connected to the local district heating or cooling network . ### residential or tertiary zones , public or tertiary building and industrial plants which consume heat in their production processes are connected to the local district heating or cooling network .


### article 174 of the treaty provides that the union should develop and pursue its actions leading to the strengthening of its economic , social and territorial cohesion . the cohesion fund should therefore provide a financial contribution to projects in the field of the environment and to trans - european networks in the area of transport infrastructure . ### article 174 of the treaty provides that the union should develop and pursue its actions leading to the strengthening of its economic , social and territorial cohesion . the cohesion fund should therefore provide a financial contribution to projects with a european added value in the field of the environment and to trans - european networks in the area of transport infrastructure .


### a common set of indicators to assess progress of programme implementation should be set out before the member states draft their operational programmes . these indicators should be complemented by programme - specific indicators . ### in accordance with a results approach based on the europe 2020 strategy , a common set of indicators to assess progress of programme implementation should be set out before the member states draft their operational programmes . these indicators should be complemented by programme - specific indicators .


### manipulation or attempted manipulation of financial instruments may also consist in placing orders which may not be executed . further , a financial instrument may be manipulated through behaviour which occurs outside a trading venue . therefore , persons who professionally arrange or execute transactions and are required to have systems in place to detect and report suspicious transactions should also report suspicious orders and suspicious transactions that take place outside a trading venue . ### manipulation or attempted manipulation of financial instruments may also consist in placing orders which may not be executed . further , a financial instrument may be manipulated through behaviour which occurs outside a trading venue . therefore , persons who professionally arrange or execute transactions and are required to have systems in place to detect and report suspicious transactions should also report suspicious orders and suspicious transactions that take place outside a trading venue . in the context of regulatory technical standards , esma should lay down appropriate rules and procedures as well as appropriate systems and notification templates , with the proviso that , for the purpose of assessing appropriateness , account should always also be taken of the extent to which compulsory notification can reasonably be expected of the parties concerned , in the light of the nature and size of their transactions .


### greater transparency of transactions conducted by persons discharging managerial responsibilities at the issuer level and , where applicable , persons closely associated with them , constitutes a preventive measure against market abuse . the publication of those transactions on at least an individual basis can also be a highly valuable source of information to investors . it is necessary to clarify that the obligation to publish those managers ' transactions also includes the pledging or lending of financial instruments and also transactions by another person exercising discretion for the manager . in order to ensure an appropriate balance between the level of transparency and the number of reports notified to competent authorities and the public , a uniform threshold should be introduced in this regulation below which transactions shall not be notified . ### greater transparency of transactions conducted by persons discharging managerial responsibilities at the issuer level and , where applicable , persons closely associated with them , constitutes a preventive measure against market abuse . the publication of those transactions on at least an individual basis can also be a highly valuable source of information to investors . it is necessary to clarify that the obligation to publish those managers ' transactions also includes the pledging or lending of financial instruments and also transactions by another person exercising discretion for the manager . a resolution of this issue should on the one hand ensure an appropriate balance between the level of transparency and the number of reports notified to competent authorities and the public while on the other hand , however , taking account of circumstances in the member states , particularly the average volume of trading , which may vary greatly , for example depending on the size of the stock exchange or of transactions in a member state . a threshold should therefore be introduced in this regulation below which transactions shall not be subject to compulsory notification , which member states may set within a certain range .


### whistleblowers bring new information to the attention of competent authorities which assists them in detecting and sanctioning cases of insider dealing and market manipulation . however , whistleblowing may be deterred for fear of retaliation , or for lack of incentives . this regulation should therefore ensure that adequate arrangements are in place to encourage whistleblowers to alert competent authorities to possible breaches of this regulation and to protect them from retaliation . however , whistleblowers should only be eligible for those incentives where they bring to light new information which they are not already legally obliged to notify and where this information results in a sanction for a breach of this regulation . member states should also ensure that whistleblowing schemes they implement include mechanisms that provide appropriate protection of a reported person , particularly with regard the right to the protection of his personal data and procedures to ensure the right of the reported person of defence and to be heard before the adoption of a decision concerning him as well as the right to seek effective remedy before a court against a decision concerning him ### whistleblowers bring new information to the attention of competent authorities which assists them in detecting and sanctioning cases of insider dealing and market manipulation . however , whistleblowing may be deterred for fear of retaliation , or for lack of incentives . this regulation should therefore contain provisions concerning encouragement for whistleblowers to alert competent authorities to possible breaches of this regulation and concerning their protection from retaliation . at the same time , however , the various legal traditions in the member states should be taken into account , for example regarding the creation of financial incentives . member states should accordingly have the option of encouraging whistleblowers to notify the competent authorities of possible breaches of this regulation , in accordance with their existing domestic legal systems . however , whistleblowers should only be eligible for those incentives where they bring to light new information which they are not already legally obliged to notify and where this information results in a sanction for a breach of this regulation . member states should also ensure that whistleblowing schemes they implement include mechanisms that provide appropriate protection of a reported person , particularly with regard the right to the protection of his personal data and procedures to ensure the right of the reported person of defence and to be heard before the adoption of a decision concerning him as well as the right to seek effective remedy before a court against a decision concerning him


### the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty . in particular , delegated acts should be adopted in respect of the conditions for buy - back programmes and stabilisation of financial instruments , the indicators for manipulative behaviour listed in annex 1 , the threshold for determining the application of the public disclosure obligation to emission allowance market participants , the conditions for drawing up insider lists and the threshold and conditions relating to managers ' transactions . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing - up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and council . ### the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty . in particular , delegated acts should be adopted in respect of the conditions for buy - back programmes and stabilisation of financial instruments , the indicators for manipulative behaviour listed in annex 1 , the threshold for determining the application of the public disclosure obligation to emission allowance market participants , the conditions for drawing up insider lists , the threshold and conditions relating to managers ' transactions and the procedures for notifying breaches of this regulation . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing - up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and council .


### esma shall develop draft regulatory technical standards to determine appropriate arrangements and procedures for persons to comply with the requirements established in paragraph 1 and to determine the systems and notification templates to be used by persons to comply with the requirements established in paragraph 2 . ### esma shall develop draft regulatory technical standards to determine appropriate arrangements and procedures for compliance with the requirements established in paragraph 1 and to determine appropriate systems and notification templates to be used for compliance with the requirements established in paragraph 2 . for the purpose of assessing appropriateness , esma shall take account of the extent to which compliance with the requirements established in paragraph 2 can reasonably be expected of the persons concerned , in the light of the nature and size of their transactions .


### paragraph 1 shall not apply to transactions totalling under eur 20 , 000 over the period of a calendar year . ### paragraph 1 shall not apply to transactions totalling less than a threshold figure to be determined by the member states over the period of a calendar year ; member states shall set this threshold figure at between eur 20 000 and 100 000 .


### sanctioning powers ### scope


### administrative measures and sanctions ### list and publication of administrative measures and sanctions


### without prejudice to the supervisory powers of competent authorities in accordance with article 17 , in case of a breach referred to in paragraph 1 , competent authorities shall , in conformity with national law , have the power to impose at least the following administrative measures and sanctions : ### without prejudice to the supervisory powers of competent authorities in accordance with article 17 , in the event of a breach referred to in article 25 , competent authorities shall , in conformity with national law , have the power to impose at least the following administrative measures and sanctions :


### in respect of a legal person , administrative pecuniary sanctions of up to 10 % of its total annual turnover in the preceding business year ; where the legal person is a subsidiary of a parent undertaking [ as defined in articles 1 and 2 of directive 83 / 349 / eec ] , the relevant total annual turnover shall be the total annual turnover resulting from the consolidated account of the ultimate parent undertaking in the preceding business year . ### in respect of a legal person , administrative pecuniary sanctions of up to 10 % of its total annual turnover in the preceding business year , but not exceeding eur 5 000 000 ; where the legal person is a subsidiary of a parent undertaking [ as defined in articles 1 and 2 of directive 83 / 349 / eec ] , the relevant total annual turnover shall be the total annual turnover resulting from the consolidated account of the ultimate parent undertaking in the preceding business year .


### every administrative measure and sanction imposed for breach of this regulation shall be published without undue delay , including at least information on the type and nature of the breach and the identity of persons responsible for it , unless such publication would seriously jeopardise the stability of financial markets . where publication would cause disproportionate damage to the parties involved , competent authorities shall publish the measures and sanctions on an anonymous basis . ### every administrative measure and sanction imposed for breach of this regulation shall be published without undue delay , including information on the type and nature of the breach , unless such publication would seriously jeopardise the stability of financial markets . where publication would cause disproportionate damage to the parties involved , competent authorities shall publish the measures and sanctions without indicating the type and nature of the breach .


### the gravity and duration of the breach ; ### the nature , gravity and duration of the breach ;


### the commission shall adopt , by means of implementing acts in accordance with article 33 , measures to specify the procedures referred to in paragraph 1 , including the modalities of reporting and the modalities for following - up of reports , the measures for the protection of persons . ### the commission shall have the power to adopt , pursuant to article 32 , delegated acts concerning measures to specify the procedures referred to in paragraph 1 , including the modalities of reporting and the modalities for following - up of reports , the measures for the protection of persons .


### the delegation of power shall be conferred for an indeterminate period of time from the date referred to in article 36 . ### the powers to adopt delegated acts referred to in articles 3 , 8 , 12 , 13 , 14 and and 29 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time following [ the date of entry into force of this regulation ] .


### the delegation of power may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision of revocation shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force . ### the delegation of power referred to in articles 3 , 8 , 12 , 13 , 14 and and 29 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision of revocation shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in the decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . the validity of any delegated acts already in force shall not be affected by the decision of revocation .


### a delegated act shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or the council within a period of 2 months of notification of that act to the european parliament and the council or if , before the expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . that period shall be extended by 2 months at the initiative of the european parliament or the council . ### a delegated act adopted pursuant to article 3 , 8 , 12 , 13 , 14 or or 29 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or by the council within a period of three months of the notification of the legal act to the european parliament and the council or if , before the expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . at the initiative of the european parliament or the council , that period shall be extended by three months .


### adequate and effective implementation and enforcement are key elements in protecting the rights of posted workers , whereas poor enforcement undermines the effectiveness of the union rules applicable in this area . close cooperation between the commission and the member states is therefore essential , without neglecting the important role of labour inspectorates and the social partners in this respect . ### adequate and effective implementation and enforcement are key elements in protecting the rights of posted workers , whereas poor enforcement undermines the effectiveness of the union rules applicable in this area . close cooperation between member states , the commission , labour inspectorates and the social partners is essential .


### a comprehensive system of preventive and control measures , together with deterrent penalties to identify and prevent individual instances of bogus self - employed , should contribute to combat concealed employment effectively . ### all forms of fraudulent use of ' self - employed ' status must be prohibited through a comprehensive system of preventive control measures and deterrent penalties .


### the commission shall continue to support the member states in this area . ### the commission shall continue to provide support , in particular financial support , to the member states in this area .


### no later than 5 years after the expiry of the deadline for transposition , the commission shall report to the european parliament , the council and the european economic and social committee on the implementation of this directive , making appropriate proposals where necessary . ### no later than 3 years after the expiry of the deadline for transposition , the commission shall report to the european parliament , the council and the european economic and social committee on the implementation of this directive , making appropriate proposals where necessary .


### this regulation establishes a visa safeguard clause allowing the rapid , temporary suspension of the visa waiver for a third country on the positive list in case of an emergency situation , where an urgent response is needed in order to resolve the difficulties faced by one or more member states , and taking account of the overall impact of the emergency situation on the european union as a whole . ### this regulation establishes a visa safeguard clause allowing the rapid , temporary suspension of the visa waiver for a third country on the positive list in case of an emergency situation , where an urgent response is needed in order to resolve the difficulties faced by one or more member states , and taking account of the overall impact of the emergency situation on the european union as a whole and the impact on its foreign relations policies with third countries in cases of suspension of the visa waiver .


### article 176 of the treaty provides that the european regional development fund is intended to help to redress the main regional imbalances in the union . in accordance with article 174 of the treaty , the erdf contributes to reducing disparities between the levels of development of the various regions and the backwardness of the least favoured regions , among which particular attention should be paid to regions which suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic handicaps such as island , cross - border and mountain regions . ### article 176 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides that the european regional development fund is intended to help to redress the main regional imbalances in the union . therefore , in accordance with this article and article 174 tfeu , the erdf should contribute to reducing disparities between the levels of development of the various regions and the backwardness of the least favoured regions , among which particular attention should be paid to rural areas , areas affected by industrial transition , and regions which suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic handicaps such as the northernmost regions with very low population density and island , cross - border and mountain regions .


### the provisions common to the erdf , the european social fund and the cohesion fund are set out in regulation no [ … ] / 2012 of [ … ] laying down common provisions on the european regional development fund , the european social fund , the cohesion fund , the european agricultural fund for rural development and the european maritime and fisheries fund covered by the common strategic framework and laying down general provisions on the european regional development fund , the european social fund and the cohesion fund and repealing regulation no 1083 / 200614 [ common provisions regulation - cpr ] . specific provisions concerning the type of activities which may be financed by the erdf under the goals defined in that regulation no / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council on the european regional development fund and repealing regulation no 1080 / 200615 [ erdf regulation ] are set out in that regulation . those regulations are not fully adapted to the specific needs of the european territorial cooperation goal , where at least two member states or one member state and third countries cooperate . it is therefore necessary to lay down provisions specific to the european territorial cooperation goal concerning scope and geographical coverage , financial resources , investment priorities and concentration , programming , monitoring and review , technical assistance , financial support and eligibility , management , control and accreditation , and financial management . ### the provisions common to the erdf , the european social fund and the cohesion fund are set out in regulation no [ . . . ] / 2012 of [ . . . ] laying down common provisions on the european regional development fund , the european social fund , the cohesion fund , the european agricultural fund for rural development and the european maritime and fisheries fund covered by the common strategic framework and laying down general provisions on the european regional development fund , the european social fund and the cohesion fund [ common provisions regulation - cpr ] . specific provisions concerning the type of activities which may be financed by the erdf under the goals defined in regulation no / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council on the european regional development fund and the investment for growth and jobs goal [ erdf regulation ] are set out in that regulation . those regulations are not fully adapted to the specific needs of the european territorial cooperation goal , where at least two member states or one member state and a third country cooperate . it is therefore necessary to lay down provisions specific to the european territorial cooperation goal concerning scope and geographical coverage , financial resources , investment priorities and concentration , programming , monitoring and review , technical assistance , financial support and eligibility , management , control and designation , and financial management .


### to increase the value added of the union ' s cohesion policy , the specific provisions should lead to considerable simplification on all levels involved : beneficiaries , programme authorities , participating member states and third countries , as well as the commission . ### to increase the value added of the union ' s cohesion policy , the specific provisions should lead to considerable simplification for all those involved : beneficiaries , programme authorities , authorities in participating member states at local , regional or national level , as appropriate , and third countries , as well as the commission .


### under the european territorial cooperation goal , the erdf supports cross - border , transnational and interregional cooperation . ### under the european territorial cooperation goal , the erdf should support cross - border , transnational and interregional cooperation .


### cross - border cooperation should aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly in the border regions and exploit the untapped potentials in the border area , while enhancing the cooperation process for the purpose of the overall harmonious development of the union . in the case of any cross - border programme between northern ireland and the border counties of ireland in support of peace and reconciliation , the erdf shall also contribute to promoting social and economic stability in the regions concerned , notably by actions to promote cohesion between communities . ### cross - border cooperation should aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly in the border regions and exploit the untapped potentials in the border area , while enhancing the cooperation process for the purpose of the overall harmonious development of the union . in the case of any cross - border programme between northern ireland and the border counties of ireland in support of peace and reconciliation , the erdf should also contribute to promoting social and economic stability in the regions concerned , notably by actions to promote cohesion between communities .


### interregional cooperation should aim to reinforce the effectiveness of cohesion policy by encouraging exchange of experience between regions to enhance design and implementation of operational programmes under the investment for growth and jobs goal . it should , in particular , foster cooperation between innovative research - intensive clusters and exchanges between researchers and research institutions , based on ‘ regions of knowledge’ and ‘ research potential in convergence and outermost regions’ under the seventh framework programme for research . ### interregional cooperation should aim to reinforce the effectiveness of cohesion policy by encouraging exchange of experience between regions on thematic objectives and urban development , including urban - rural linkages , to improve implementation of territorial cooperation programmes and actions as well as promoting analysis of development trends in the area of territorial cohesion through studies , data collection and other measures . the exchange of experience on thematic objectives should enhance design and implementation principally of operational programmes under the investment for growth and jobs goal but also , where appropriate , of programmes under the european territorial cooperation goal , including the fostering of mutually beneficial cooperation between innovative research - intensive clusters and exchanges between researchers and research institutions in both developed and less developed regions , taking into consideration the experience of ‘ regions of knowledge’ and ‘ research potential in convergence and outermost regions’ under the seventh framework programme for research .


### cross - border cooperation should support regions located on land or sea borders . based on experience from previous programming periods , the commission should be empowered to define the list of cross - border areas to receive support under cross - border cooperation programmes in a simpler way , by cooperation programme . in drawing up that list , the commission should take into account adjustments needed to ensure coherence , in particular on land and maritime borders , and continuity of programme areas established for the 2007 - 2013 programming period . these adjustments may reduce or enlarge existing programme areas or the number of cross - border cooperation programmes , but may allow for geographical overlap . ### cross - border cooperation should support regions located on land or sea borders . based on experience from previous programming periods , the commission should define the list of cross - border areas to receive support under cross - border cooperation programmes in a simpler way , by cooperation programme . in drawing up that list , the commission should take into account adjustments needed to ensure coherence , in particular on land and maritime borders , and continuity of programme areas established for the 2007 - 2013 programming period . these adjustments may reduce or enlarge existing programme areas or the number of cross - border cooperation programmes , but may allow for geographical overlap .


### areas for transnational cooperation should be defined having regard to actions needed to promote integrated territorial development . the commission should be empowered to define transnational cooperation areas . ### the commission should [ . . . ] define transnational cooperation areas having regard to actions needed to promote integrated territorial development . in doing so the commission should take into account the experience obtained in previous programmes and , where appropriate , macro - regional and sea - basin strategies .


### it is necessary to continue supporting or – where needed – to establish cross - border , transnational and interregional cooperation with the union ' s neighbouring third countries , as this will benefit the regions of the member states which border third countries . to that effect , the erdf will contribute to the cross - border and sea basin programmes established under the european neighbourhood instrument pursuant to regulation no [ … ] / 2012 and the instrument for pre - accession pursuant to regulation no [ … ] / 2012 . ### it is necessary to continue supporting or – where needed – to establish cross - border , transnational and interregional cooperation with the union ' s neighbouring third countries , as this important regional development policy tool will benefit the regions of the member states which border third countries . to that effect , the erdf will contribute to the cross - border and sea basin programmes established under the european neighbourhood instrument pursuant to regulation no [ . . . ] / 2012and the instrument for pre - accession assistance pursuant to regulation no [ . . . ] / 2012 .


### for the benefit of the regions of the union , a mechanism to organise support from the erdf to external policy instruments such as eni and ipa should be set up , including where external cooperation programmes cannot be adopted or have to be discontinued . ### for the benefit of the regions of the union , a mechanism to organise support from the erdf to external policy instruments such as eni and ipa ii should be set up , including where external cooperation programmes cannot be adopted or have to be discontinued . this mechanism should seek to achieve optimal functioning and the maximum possible coordination between these instruments .


### apart from interventions on external borders supported by external policy instruments of the union covering border regions inside and outside the union , there may be cooperation programmes supported by the erdf that cover regions both inside and outside the union where the regions outside the union are not covered by external policy instruments , either because they are not a defined beneficiary country or because such external cooperation programmes cannot be set up . the commission should therefore be empowered , when drawing up the lists of cross - border and transnational programme areas , to cover regions from third countries as well . ### apart from interventions on external borders supported by external policy instruments of the union covering border regions inside and outside the union , there may be cooperation programmes supported by the erdf that cover regions both inside and in certain cases outside the union where the regions outside the union are not covered by external policy instruments , either because they are not a defined beneficiary country or because such external cooperation programmes cannot be set up . it is necessary , however , to ensure that the financing of assistance from the erdf for operations , implemented in the territory of third countries should serve primarily for the benefit of the regions of the union . within these constraints , the commission should , when drawing up the lists of cross - border and transnational programme areas , cover regions from third countries as well .


### it is necessary to fix the resources allocated to each of the different components of the european territorial cooperation goal , while maintaining a significant concentration on cross - border cooperation and securing sufficient funding levels for outermost regions ' cooperation . ### it is necessary to fix the resources allocated to each of the different components of the european territorial cooperation goal , while maintaining a significant concentration on cross - border cooperation , including each member state ' s share of the global amounts for cross - border and transnational cooperation , the potential available to member states concerning flexibility between those components , and securing sufficient funding levels for outermost regions ' cooperation .


### the selection of thematic objectives should be limited in order to maximise the impact of cohesion policy across the union . however , the concentration under interregional cooperation should be reflected in the aim of each operation rather than in a limitation of the number of thematic objectives , in order to get the most out of interregional cooperation for the reinforcement of the effectiveness of cohesion policy under the investment for growth and jobs and the european territorial cooperation goals . ### the major part of the erdf funding for cross - border and transnational cooperation programmes should be concentrated on a limited number of thematic objectives in order to maximise the impact of cohesion policy across the union . however , the concentration under interregional cooperation on thematic objectives should be reflected in the aim of each operation rather than in a limitation of the number of thematic objectives , in order to get the most out of interregional cooperation for the reinforcement of the effectiveness of cohesion policy principally under the investment for growth and jobs and also , where appropriate , the european territorial cooperation goals . for the other interregional cooperation programmes , the concentration should follow from their specific scope .


### in order to deliver on the targets and objectives of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth set out in the europe 2020 strategy19 , the erdf should contribute under the european territorial cooperation goal to the thematic objectives of developing an economy based on knowledge , research and innovation , promoting a greener , more resource - efficient and competitive economy , fostering high employment that delivers social and territorial cohesion , and developing administrative capacity . however , the list of the investment priorities under the different thematic objectives should be adapted to the specific needs of the european territorial cooperation goal , in particular by allowing for the continuation under cross - border cooperation of legal and administrative cooperation and cooperation between citizens and institutions , of cooperation in the fields of employment , training and social inclusion in a cross - border perspective , by allowing for the continuation under transnational cooperation of maritime cross - border cooperation not covered by cross - border cooperation programmes , and by the development and implementation of macro - regional and sea - basin strategies . ### in order to deliver on the targets and objectives of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth set out in the europe 2020 strategy , the erdf should contribute under the european territorial cooperation goal to the thematic objectives of developing an economy based on knowledge , research and innovation , including through the fostering of cooperation between businesses , particularly between smes , and through the promotion of the establishment of systems for cross - border information exchange in the area of ict ; promoting a greener , more resource - efficient and competitive economy , including through the promotion of sustainable cross - border mobility ; fostering high employment that delivers social and territorial cohesion , including through activities supporting sustainable tourism , culture and natural heritage as part of a territorial strategy with a view to achieving employment friendly growth ; and developing administrative capacity . however , the list of the investment priorities under the different thematic objectives should be adapted to the specific needs of the european territorial cooperation goal , in particular by allowing for the continuation under cross - border cooperation of legal and administrative cooperation and cooperation between citizens and institutions , of cooperation in the fields of employment , training , integration of communities and social inclusion in a cross - border perspective , by allowing for the continuation under transnational cooperation of maritime cross - border cooperation not covered by cross - border cooperation programmes , and by the development and coordination of macro - regional and sea - basin strategies . in addition , specific or additional investment priorities should be set out for certain interregional cooperation programmes to capture their specific activities .


### it is necessary to adapt the content requirements of cooperation programmes under the european territorial cooperation goal to their specific needs . therefore they also need to cover aspects necessary for effective implementation on the territory of participating member states , such as the bodies responsible for audit and control , the procedure to set up a joint secretariat , and the allocation of liabilities in case of financial corrections . in addition , due to the horizontal character of interregional cooperation programmes , the content of such cooperation programmes should be adapted , especially as regards the definition of the beneficiary or beneficiaries under the current interact and espon programmes . ### it is necessary to adapt the content requirements of cooperation programmes under the european territorial cooperation goal to their specific needs . therefore they should also cover aspects necessary for effective implementation on the territory of participating member states , such as the bodies responsible for audit and control , the procedure to set up a joint secretariat , and the allocation of liabilities in case of financial corrections . where member states and regions participate in macro - regional and sea - basin strategies , the cooperation programmes concerned should set out how interventions could contribute towards such strategies . in addition , due to the horizontal character of interregional cooperation programmes , the content of such cooperation programmes should be adapted , especially as regards the definition of the beneficiary or beneficiaries under the current interact and espon programmes .


### consistent with the goal of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , the structural funds should provide a more integrated and inclusive approach to tackling local problems . in order to strengthen this approach , support from the erdf support in border regions should be coordinated with support from the european agricultural fund for rural development and the european maritime and fisheries fund and should , where appropriate , involve european groupings of territorial cooperation set up under regulation no 1082 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2006 on a european grouping of territorial cooperation where local development figures among their objectives . ### consistent with the union strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , the european structural and investment funds should provide a more integrated and inclusive approach to tackling local problems . in order to strengthen this approach , support from the erdf support in border regions should be coordinated with support from the european agricultural fund for rural development and the european maritime and fisheries fund and should , where appropriate , involve european groupings of territorial cooperation set up under regulation no 1082 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2006 on a european grouping of territorial cooperation where local development figures among their objectives .


### based on the experience from the 2007 - 13 programming period , the conditions for the selection of operations should be clarified and strengthened in order to ensure selection of only genuinely joint operations . the notion of sole beneficiaries should be defined and it should be clarified that they are permitted to carry out cooperation operations by themselves . ### based on the experience from the 2007 - 2013 programming period , the conditions for the selection of operations should be clarified and strengthened in order to ensure selection of only genuinely joint operations . due to the particular context and specificities of cooperation programmes between outermost regions and third countries or territories , lightened cooperation conditions in terms of processing operations under those programmes should be established and adapted . the notion of sole beneficiaries should be defined and it should be clarified that they are permitted to carry out cooperation operations by themselves .


### a common set of indicators to assess progress of programme implementation adapted to the specific character of cooperation programmes should be set out before the member states draft their cooperation programmes . these indicators should be complemented by programme - specific indicators . ### a common set of output indicators to facilitate the assessment of the progress of programme implementation , adapted to the specific character of cooperation programmes , should be set out before the member states draft their cooperation programmes . those indicators should be complemented by programme - specific result indicators and , where relevant , by programme specific output indicators .


### due to the involvement of more than one member state and the resulting higher administrative costs , in particular in respect of controls and translation , the ceiling for technical assistance expenditure should be higher than under the investment for growth and jobs goal . in addition , cooperation programmes with limited erdf support should receive a certain minimum amount to ensure sufficient funding for effective technical assistance activities . ### due to the involvement of more than one member state and the resulting higher administrative costs , in particular in respect of controls and translation , the ceiling for technical assistance expenditure should be higher than under the investment for growth and jobs goal . in order to offset these higher costs member states should be encouraged wherever possible to reduce administrative burdens with regard to the implementation of joint projects . in addition , cooperation programmes with limited erdf support should receive a certain minimum amount for technical assistance which may be greater than 6% , to ensure sufficient funding for effective technical assistance activities .


### due to the involvement of more than one member state , the general rule laid down in the regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] that each member state adopts its national eligibility rules is not appropriate for the european territorial cooperation goal . based on experience from the 2007 - 13 programming period , a clear hierarchy of eligibility rules should be established with a strong move towards joint eligibility rules . ### due to the involvement of more than one member state , the general rule laid down in the regulation no [ . . . ] / 2012 [ cpr ] that each member state adopts its national eligibility rules is not appropriate for the european territorial cooperation goal . based on experience from the 2007 - 2013 programming period , a clear hierarchy of eligibility rules should be established with a strong move towards joint eligibility rules to avoid any possible contradictions or inconsistencies between different regulations and between regulations and national rules . in particular , the commission should , based on experience from the 2007 - 2013 programming period , adopt joint eligibility rules , based on cost categories laid down in this regulation .


### due to the frequent involvement of staff from more than one member state in the implementation of operations , and given the number of operations for which staff costs is a significant element , a flat - rate for costs covering staff should be applied to the other direct costs of cooperation operations , thus avoiding individual accounting for the management of such operations . ### due to the frequent involvement of staff from more than one member state in the implementation of operations , and given the number of operations for which staff costs is a significant element , a flat - rate for staff costs should be applied to the other direct costs of cooperation operations , thus avoiding individual accounting for the management of such operations .


### the rules on flexibility concerning the location of operations outside the programme area should be simplified . in addition , it is necessary to support effective cross - border , transnational and interregional cooperation with the union ' s neighbouring third countries where this is necessary to ensure that the regions of the member states which border third countries can be effectively assisted in their development . accordingly , it is appropriate to authorise on an exceptional basis and under certain conditions the financing of assistance from the erdf for operations located on the territory of third countries where the operations are for the benefit of the regions of the union . ### the rules on flexibility concerning the location of operations outside the programme area should be simplified . in addition , it is necessary to support and facilitate , through specific arrangements , effective cross - border , transnational and interregional cooperation with the union ' s neighbouring third countries where this is necessary to ensure that the regions of the member states which border third countries are effectively assisted in their development . accordingly , it is appropriate to authorise on an exceptional basis and under certain conditions the financing of assistance from the erdf for operations located on the territory of neighbouring third countries where those operations are for the benefit of the regions of the union .


### member states should be encouraged to confer the task of the managing authority on an egtc or to make such a grouping responsible for managing the part of a cooperation programme covering the territory concerned by the egtc . ### member states should be encouraged to confer the task of the managing authority on an egtc or to make such a grouping responsible for managing the part of a cooperation programme covering the territory concerned by that egtc .


### the managing authority should set up a joint secretariat which should provide information to applicants for support , deal with project applications and assist beneficiaries in implementing their operations . ### the managing authority should set up a joint secretariat which should , among other tasks , provide information to applicants for support , deal with project applications and assist beneficiaries in implementing their operations .


### managing authorities should be responsible for all functions of the managing authority listed in article 114 of regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] , including for management verifications in order to ensure uniform standards across the whole programme area . however , where an egtc is designated as managing authority , it should be authorised to carry out such verifications , as all participating member states are represented in its organs . even where no egtc is designated , the managing authority should be authorised by the participating member states to carry out verifications on the whole programme area . ### managing authorities should be responsible for all functions listed in article 114 of regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] , including for management verifications in order to ensure uniform standards across the whole programme area . however , where an egtc is designated as managing authority , such verifications should be carried out by or under the responsibility of the managing authority at least for those member states and third countries from which there are members participating in the egtc , while controllers should only be used in the remaining member states and third countries . even where no egtc is designated , the managing authority should be authorised by the participating member states to carry out verifications on the whole programme area .


### managing authorities should be responsible for all functions of the managing authority listed in article 114 of regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] , including for management verifications in order to ensure uniform standards across the whole programme area . however , where an egtc is designated as managing authority , it should be authorised to carry out such verifications , as all participating member states are represented in its organs . even where no egtc is designated , the managing authority should be authorised by the participating member states to carry out verifications on the whole programme area . ### managing authorities should be responsible for all functions devolved upon them under article 114 of regulation no [ . . . ] / 2012 [ cpr ] , including for management verifications in order to ensure uniform standards across the whole programme area . however , where an egtc is designated as managing authority , it should be authorised to carry out such verifications , as all participating member states are represented in its organs . even where no egtc is designated , the managing authority should be authorised by the participating member states to carry out verifications on the whole programme area .