### (17) low and medium income households , vulnerable customers , including final users , people facing or risking energy poverty and people living in social housing should benefit from the application of the energy efficiency first principle. energy efficiency measures should be implemented as a priority to improve the situations of those individuals and households or to alleviate energy poverty. a holistic approach in policy making and in implementing policies and measures requires member states to ensure that other policies and measures have no adverse effect on these individuals and households. ### (17) in particular , low and medium income households , inhabitants of structurally disadvantaged regions , vulnerable customers , including final users , people facing or risking energy poverty and people living in social housing should benefit from the application of the energy efficiency first principle. energy efficiency measures should be implemented as a priority to improve the situations of those individuals and households or to alleviate energy poverty. a holistic approach in policy making and in implementing policies and measures requires member states to ensure that other policies and measures have no adverse effect on these individuals and households.


### (49) where using an obligation scheme , member states should designate obligated parties among transmission system operators , energy distributors , retail energy sales companies and transport fuel distributors or retailers on the basis of objective and non-discriminatory criteria. the designation or exemption from designation of certain categories of such distributors or retailers should not be understood to be incompatible with the principle of non-discrimination. member states are therefore able to choose whether such transmission system operators , distributors or retailers or only certain categories thereof are designated as obligated parties. to empower and protect vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing , and to implement policy measures as a priority among those people , member states can require obligated parties to achieve energy savings among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing. for that purpose , member states can also establish energy cost reduction targets. obligated parties could achieve these targets by promoting the installation of measures that lead to energy savings and financial savings on energy bills , such as the installation of insulation and heating measures. ### (49) where using an obligation scheme , member states should designate obligated parties among transmission system operators , energy distributors , retail energy sales companies and transport fuel distributors or retailers on the basis of objective and non-discriminatory criteria. the designation or exemption from designation of certain categories of such distributors or retailers should not be understood to be incompatible with the principle of non-discrimination. member states are therefore able to choose whether such transmission system operators , distributors or retailers or only certain categories thereof are designated as obligated parties. to protect vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing , and to implement policy measures as a priority among those people , member states can require obligated parties to achieve such energy savings that do not translate in increased costs in other areas for the relevant groups among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing. for that purpose , member states can also establish energy cost reduction targets. obligated parties could achieve these targets by promoting the installation of measures that lead to energy savings and financial savings on energy bills , such as the installation of insulation and heating measures.


### (49) where using an obligation scheme , member states should designate obligated parties among transmission system operators , energy distributors , retail energy sales companies and transport fuel distributors or retailers on the basis of objective and non-discriminatory criteria. the designation or exemption from designation of certain categories of such distributors or retailers should not be understood to be incompatible with the principle of non-discrimination. member states are therefore able to choose whether such transmission system operators , distributors or retailers or only certain categories thereof are designated as obligated parties. to empower and protect vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing , and to implement policy measures as a priority among those people , member states can require obligated parties to achieve energy savings among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing. for that purpose , member states can also establish energy cost reduction targets. obligated parties could achieve these targets by promoting the installation of measures that lead to energy savings and financial savings on energy bills , such as the installation of insulation and heating measures. ### (49) where using an obligation scheme , member states should designate obligated parties among energy distributors , retail energy sales companies and transport fuel distributors or retailers on the basis of objective and non-discriminatory criteria. the designation or exemption from designation of certain categories of such distributors or retailers should not be understood to be incompatible with the principle of non-discrimination. member states are therefore able to choose whether such distributors or retailers or only certain categories thereof are designated as obligated parties. to empower and protect vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing , and to implement policy measures as a priority among those people , member states can require obligated parties to achieve energy savings among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing. for that purpose , member states can also establish energy cost reduction targets. obligated parties could achieve these targets by promoting the installation of measures that lead to energy savings and financial savings on energy bills , such as the installation of insulation and heating measures.


### (61) this directive refers to the concept of vulnerable customers , which member states are to establish pursuant to directive (eu) 2019/944. in addition , pursuant to directive 2012/27/eu , the notion of ‘final users’ alongside the notion of ‘final customer’ clarifies that the rights to billing and consumption information also apply to consumers without individual or direct contracts with the supplier of energy used for collective heating , cooling or domestic hot water production systems in multi-occupant buildings. the concept of vulnerable customers does not necessarily ensure the targeting of final users. therefore , in order to ensure that the measures set out in this directive reach all individuals and households in a situation of vulnerability , member states should include not only customers , in its strict sense , but also final users , in establishing their definition of vulnerable customers. ### (61) this directive refers to the concept of vulnerable customers , which member states are to establish pursuant to directive (eu) 2019/944. in addition , pursuant to directive 2012/27/eu , the notion of ‘final users’ alongside the notion of ‘final customer’ clarifies that the rights to billing and consumption information also apply to consumers without individual or direct contracts with the supplier of energy used for collective heating , cooling or domestic hot water production systems in multi-occupant buildings. the concept of vulnerable customers does not necessarily ensure the targeting of final users. therefore , in order to ensure that the measures set out in this directive reach all individuals and households in a situation of vulnerability , member states should include not only customers , in its strict sense , but also final users , in establishing their definition of vulnerable customers. in their definition , member states should pay particular attention to women , single-parent households , people with disabilities and elderly consumers , as these target groups might be more prone than others to intersectional risks.


### (62) around 34 million households in the union were unable to keep their home adequately warm in 201974. the european green deal prioritises the social dimension of the transition by committing to the principle that `no one is left behind´. the green transition , including the clean transition , affects women and men differently and may have a particular impact on some disadvantaged groups including people with disabilities. energy efficiency measures must therefore be central to any cost-effective strategy to address energy poverty and consumer vulnerability and are complementary to social security policies at member state level. to ensure that energy efficiency measures reduce energy poverty for tenants sustainably , the cost-effectiveness of such measures , as well as their affordability to property owners and tenants , should be taken into account , and adequate financial and technical support for such measures should be guaranteed at member state level. member states should support the local and regional level in identifying and alleviating energy poverty. the union’s building stock needs , in the long term , to be converted to nzebs in accordance with the objectives of the paris agreement. present building renovation rates are insufficient and buildings occupied by low-income citizens affected by energy poverty are the hardest to reach. the measures laid down in this directive with regard to energy savings obligations , energy efficiency obligation schemes and alternative policy measures are therefore of particular importance. ### (62) around 34 million households in the union were unable to keep their home adequately warm in 201974. the european green deal emphasises the social dimension of the transition by committing to the principle that `no one is left behind´. the green transition , including the clean transition , affects women and men differently and may have a particular impact on some disadvantaged groups including people with disabilities. energy efficiency measures must therefore be central to any cost-effective strategy to address energy poverty and consumer vulnerability and are complementary to social security policies at member state level. to ensure that energy efficiency measures reduce energy poverty for tenants sustainably , the cost-effectiveness of such measures , as well as their affordability to property owners and tenants , should be taken into account , and adequate financial and technical support for such measures should be guaranteed at member state level. member states should support the local and regional level in identifying and alleviating energy poverty. the union’s building stock needs , in the long term , to be converted to nzebs in accordance with the objectives of the paris agreement. present building renovation rates are insufficient and buildings occupied by low-income citizens affected by energy poverty are the hardest to reach. the measures laid down in this directive with regard to energy savings obligations , energy efficiency obligation schemes and alternative policy measures are therefore of particular importance.


### (92) the contribution of renewable energy communities , pursuant to directive (eu) 2018/2001 of the european parliament and of the council80 , and citizen energy communities , according to directive (eu) 2019/944 towards the objectives of the european green deal and the 2030 climate target plan , should be recognised. member states should , therefore , consider and promote the role of renewable energy communities and citizen energy communities. those communities can help member states to achieve the objectives of this directive by advancing energy efficiency at local or household level. they can empower and engage consumers and enable certain groups of household customers , including in rural and remote areas to participate in energy efficiency projects and interventions. energy communities can help fighting energy poverty through facilitation of energy efficiency projects , reduced energy consumption and lower supply tariffs. ### (92) the contribution of renewable energy communities , pursuant to directive (eu) 2018/2001 of the european parliament and of the council80 , and citizen energy communities , according to directive (eu) 2019/944 towards the objectives of the european green deal and the 2030 climate target plan , should be recognised. member states should , therefore , consider and promote the role of renewable energy communities and citizen energy communities. those communities can help member states to achieve the objectives of this directive by advancing energy efficiency at local or household level. they can empower and engage consumers and enable certain groups of household customers , including in rural and remote areas to participate in energy efficiency projects and interventions. to this end , it is particularly relevant and appropriate , to involve women in all their diversity and in their roles of consumers , producers , decision-makers and entrepreneurs , given their potential to act as societal agents of change. energy communities can help fighting energy poverty through facilitation of energy efficiency projects , reduced energy consumption and lower supply tariffs.


### (92) the contribution of renewable energy communities , pursuant to directive (eu) 2018/2001 of the european parliament and of the council80 , and citizen energy communities , according to directive (eu) 2019/944 towards the objectives of the european green deal and the 2030 climate target plan , should be recognised. member states should , therefore , consider and promote the role of renewable energy communities and citizen energy communities. those communities can help member states to achieve the objectives of this directive by advancing energy efficiency at local or household level. they can empower and engage consumers and enable certain groups of household customers , including in rural and remote areas to participate in energy efficiency projects and interventions. energy communities can help fighting energy poverty through facilitation of energy efficiency projects , reduced energy consumption and lower supply tariffs. ### (92) the contribution of renewable energy communities , pursuant to directive (eu) 2018/2001 of the european parliament and of the council80 , and citizen energy communities , according to directive (eu) 2019/944 towards the objectives of the european green deal and the 2030 climate target plan , should be recognised. member states should , therefore , recognise and promote the role of renewable energy communities and citizen energy communities. those communities can help member states to achieve the objectives of this directive by advancing energy efficiency at local or household level. they can empower and engage consumers , strengthen their motivation to participate in energy efficiency improvements and enable certain groups of household customers , including in rural and remote areas to participate in energy efficiency projects and interventions. energy communities can help fighting energy poverty through facilitation of energy efficiency projects , reduced energy consumption and lower supply tariffs.


### (93) the contribution of one-stop shops or similar structures as mechanisms that can enable multiple target groups , including citizens , smes and public authorities , to design and implement projects and measures related to the clean energy transition , should be recognised. that contribution can include the provision of technical , administrative and financial advice and assistance , facilitation of the necessary administrative procedures or of access to financial markets , or guidance with the national and european legal framework , including public procurement rules and criteria , and the eu taxonomy. ### (93) the contribution of one-stop shops or similar structures as mechanisms that can enable multiple target groups , including citizens , smes and public authorities , to design and implement projects and measures related to the clean energy transition , should be recognised. the contribution of one-stop-shops can be very important for most vulnerable customers , including women in all their diversity and single-parents , as they could represent an easier , reliable and accessible source of information about energy efficiency improvements. that contribution can include the provision of technical , administrative and financial advice and assistance , facilitation of the necessary administrative procedures or of access to financial markets , or guidance with the national and european legal framework , including public procurement rules and criteria , and the eu taxonomy.


### (96) it is necessary to ensure that people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing are protected and , to this end , empowered to actively participate in the energy efficiency improvement interventions , measures and related consumer protection or information measures that member states implement. ### (96) it is necessary to ensure that people affected by energy poverty , whether actual or potential , as well as vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing are protected and , to this end , empowered to actively participate in the energy efficiency improvement interventions , measures and related consumer protection or information measures that member states implement.


### (97) public funding available at national and union level should be strategically invested into energy efficiency improvement measures , in particular for the benefit of vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and those living in social housing. member states should take advantage of any financial contribution they might receive from the social climate fund [social climate fund regulation] , and of revenues from allowances from the eu emissions trading system. these revenue will support member states in fulfilling their obligation to implement energy efficiency measures and policy measures under the energy savings obligation as a priority among vulnerable customers and people affected by energy poverty , which may include those living in rural and remote regions.82 ### (97) public funding available at national and union level should be strategically invested into energy efficiency improvement measures , in particular for the benefit of vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty , inhabitants of structurally disadvantaged regions and those living in social housing. to this end , member states should take advantage of financial contributions they might receive from the social climate fund [social climate fund regulation] , and of revenues from allowances from the eu emissions trading system. these revenue will support member states in fulfilling their obligation to implement energy efficiency measures and policy measures under the energy savings obligation as a priority among vulnerable customers and people affected by energy poverty , which may include those living in rural and remote regions.82


### (97) public funding available at national and union level should be strategically invested into energy efficiency improvement measures , in particular for the benefit of vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and those living in social housing. member states should take advantage of any financial contribution they might receive from the social climate fund82 , and of revenues from allowances from the eu emissions trading system. these revenues will support member states in fulfilling their obligation to implement energy efficiency measures and policy measures under the energy savings obligation as a priority among vulnerable customers and people affected by energy poverty , which may include those living in rural and remote regions. ### (97) public funding available at national and union level should be strategically invested into energy efficiency improvement measures , in particular for the benefit of vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and those living in social housing , for example through the setup of national insulation teams that practically help citizens to insulate their houses in a fast , efficient and fitting way. member states should take advantage of any financial contribution they might receive from the social climate fund82 , and of revenues from allowances from the eu emissions trading system. these revenues will support member states in fulfilling their obligation to implement energy efficiency measures and policy measures under the energy savings obligation as a priority among vulnerable customers and people affected by energy poverty , which may include those living in rural and remote regions.


### (97) public funding available at national and union level should be strategically invested into energy efficiency improvement measures , in particular for the benefit of vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and those living in social housing. member states should take advantage of any financial contribution they might receive from the social climate fund82 , and of revenues from allowances from the eu emissions trading system. these revenues will support member states in fulfilling their obligation to implement energy efficiency measures and policy measures under the energy savings obligation as a priority among vulnerable customers and people affected by energy poverty , which may include those living in rural and remote regions. ### (97) public funding available at national and union level should be strategically invested into energy efficiency improvement measures , in particular for the benefit of vulnerable customers , transport users , smes , micro-enterprises , people affected by energy poverty and those living in social housing. member states should take advantage of any financial contribution they might receive from the social climate fund82 , and of revenues from allowances from the eu emissions trading system. these revenues will support member states in fulfilling their obligation to implement energy efficiency measures and policy measures under the energy savings obligation as a priority among vulnerable customers , transport users , smes , micro-enterprises and people affected by energy poverty , which may include those living in rural and remote regions.


### (99) member states should empower and protect all people equally , irrespective of their sex , gender , age , disability , race or ethnic origin , sexual orientation , religion or belief , and ensure that those most affected or put at greater risk of being affected by energy poverty , or most exposed to the adverse impacts of energy poverty , are adequately protected. in addition , member states should ensure that energy efficiency measures do not exacerbate any existing inequalities , notably with respect to energy poverty. ### (99) member states should empower and protect all people equally , irrespective of their sex , gender , age , disability , race or ethnic origin , sexual orientation , religion or belief , and ensure that those most affected or put at greater risk of being affected by energy poverty , or most exposed to the adverse impacts of energy poverty , are adequately protected. in addition , member states should ensure that energy efficiency measures do not exacerbate any existing inequalities , including energy poverty.


### (100) member states should ensure that national energy regulatory authorities take an integrated approach encompassing potential savings in the energy supply and the end-use sectors. without prejudice to security of supply , market integration and anticipatory investments in offshore grids necessary for the deployment of offshore renewable energy , national energy regulatory authorities should ensure that the energy efficiency first principle is applied in the planning and decision making processes and that network tariffs and regulations incentivise improvements in energy efficiency. member states should also ensure that transmission and distribution system operators consider the energy efficiency first principle. that would help transmission and distribution system operators to consider better energy efficiency solutions and incremental costs incurred for the procurement of demand side resources , as well as the environmental and socio-economic impacts of different network investments and operation plans. such an approach requires a shift from the narrow economic efficiency perspective to maximised social welfare. the energy efficiency first principle should in particular be applied in the context of scenario building for energy infrastructure expansion where demand side solutions could be considered as viable alternatives and need to be properly assessed , and it should become an intrinsic part of the assessment of network planning projects. its application should be scrutinised by national regulatory authorities. ### (100) member states should ensure that national energy regulatory authorities take an integrated approach encompassing potential savings in the energy supply and the end-use sectors. without prejudice to security of supply , market integration and anticipatory investments in offshore grids necessary for the deployment of offshore renewable energy , national energy regulatory authorities should ensure that the energy efficiency first principle is applied in the planning and decision making processes , which should always include considerations of gender mainstreaming and inclusiveness. member states should also ensure that network tariffs and regulations incentivise improvements in energy efficiency and that transmission and distribution system operators consider the energy efficiency first principle. that would help transmission and distribution system operators to consider better energy efficiency solutions and incremental costs incurred for the procurement of demand side resources , as well as the environmental and socio-economic impacts of different network investments and operation plans. such an approach requires a shift from the narrow economic efficiency perspective to maximised social welfare. the energy efficiency first principle should in particular be applied in the context of scenario building for energy infrastructure expansion where demand side solutions could be considered as viable alternatives and need to be properly assessed , and it should become an intrinsic part of the assessment of network planning projects. its application should be scrutinised by national regulatory authorities.


### (103) given the ambitious renovation objectives over the next decade in the context of the commission’s communication entitled renovation wave it is necessary to increase the role of independent market intermediaries including one stop shops or similar support mechanisms in order to stimulate market development on the demand and supply sides and to promote energy performance contracting for renovation of both private and public buildings. local energy agencies could play a key role in this regard , and identify and support setting up potential facilitators or one-stop-shops. ### (103) given the ambitious renovation objectives over the next decade in the context of the commission’s communication entitled renovation wave it is necessary to increase the role of independent market intermediaries including one stop shops or similar support mechanisms in order to stimulate market development on the demand and supply sides and to promote energy performance contracting for renovation of both private and public buildings. to this end , it is important to recognise that is still hard for citizens to be able to identify without support the best possible options for their circumstances. the directive should help improve the availability of products , services and advices in the european and local markets , also by promoting the potential for women entrepreneurs to fill the gaps in the market and to provide for innovative ways to enhance energy efficiency. local energy agencies could play a key role in this regard , and identify and support setting up potential facilitators or one-stop-shops.


### (106) member states have taken measures to identify and address the regulatory and non-regulatory barriers. however , there is a need to increase the effort to remove regulatory and non-regulatory barriers to the use of energy performance contracting and third-party financing arrangements which help achieving energy savings. these barriers include accounting rules and practices that prevent capital investments and annual financial savings resulting from energy efficiency improvement measures from being adequately reflected in the accounts for the whole life of the investment. ### (106) member states have taken measures to identify and address the regulatory and non-regulatory barriers. however , there is a need to increase the effort to remove regulatory and non-regulatory barriers to the use of energy performance contracting and third-party financing arrangements which help achieving energy savings. these barriers include accounting rules and practices that prevent capital investments and annual financial savings resulting from energy efficiency improvement measures from being adequately reflected in the accounts for the whole life of the investment. another barrier that this directive should help overcome is the lack of the necessary skills and competences of people , from the basic ones to the more specialised , in particular regarding engineering , energy efficiency , system integration , flexibility and digitalisation. member states should adopt measures to increase opportunities of advancing education , training and maintenance skills and capacities , with a special focus on women and girls.


### promote and , where cost-benefit assessments are required , ensure the application of cost-benefit methodologies that allow proper assessment of wider benefits of energy efficiency solutions from the societal perspective; ### promote and , where cost-benefit assessments are required , ensure the application of cost-benefit methodologies , which include the entire life cycle and take foreseeable future developments as well as system and cost efficiency and security of supply into account , that allow proper assessment of wider benefits of energy efficiency solutions from the societal perspective;


### promote and , where cost-benefit assessments are required , ensure the application of cost-benefit methodologies that allow proper assessment of wider benefits of energy efficiency solutions from the societal perspective; ### promote and , where cost-benefit assessments are required , ensure the application of cost-benefit methodologies that allow proper assessment of potential benefits of energy efficiency solutions from the societal and economic perspective;


### 3. member states shall ensure that regional and local authorities , establish specific energy efficiency measures in their decarbonisation plans after consulting stakeholders and the public , including the particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects , such as women , persons with disabilities , older persons , children , and persons with a minority racial or ethnic background. ### 3. member states shall ensure that regional and local authorities , establish specific energy efficiency measures in their decarbonisation plans after consulting stakeholders and the public , including the particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects.


### 3. member states shall ensure that regional and local authorities , establish specific energy efficiency measures in their decarbonisation plans after consulting stakeholders and the public , including the particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects , such as women , persons with disabilities , older persons , children , and persons with a minority racial or ethnic background. ### 3. member states shall ensure that regional and local authorities , establish specific energy efficiency measures in their decarbonisation plans after consulting stakeholders and the public , including the particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects , such as women , persons with disabilities , older persons , children , persons with a minority racial or ethnic background , and inhabitants of structurally disadvantaged regions.


### 3. member states shall ensure that regional and local authorities , establish specific energy efficiency measures in their decarbonisation plans after consulting stakeholders and the public , including the particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects , such as women , persons with disabilities , older persons , children , and persons with a minority racial or ethnic background. ### 3. member states shall ensure that regional and local authorities , establish specific energy efficiency measures in their decarbonisation plans after consulting stakeholders and the public , including the particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects , primarily lower income households and people from disadvantaged backgrounds.


### 5. member states may require that contracting authorities and contracting entities take into account , where appropriate , wider sustainability , social , environmental and circular economy aspects in procurement practices with a view to achieving the union’s decarbonisation and zero pollution objectives. where appropriate , and in accordance with the requirements laid down in annex iv , member states shall require contracting authorities and contracting entities to take into account union green public procurement criteria. ### 5. member states may require that contracting authorities and contracting entities take into account , where appropriate , economic viability and cost effectiveness , wider sustainability , social , environmental and circular economy aspects in procurement practices with a view to achieving the union’s decarbonisation and zero pollution objectives. where appropriate , and in accordance with the requirements laid down in annex iv , member states shall require contracting authorities and contracting entities to take into account union green public procurement criteria.


### 5. member states may require that contracting authorities and contracting entities take into account , where appropriate , wider sustainability , social , environmental and circular economy aspects in procurement practices with a view to achieving the union’s decarbonisation and zero pollution objectives. where appropriate , and in accordance with the requirements laid down in annex iv , member states shall require contracting authorities and contracting entities to take into account union green public procurement criteria. ### 5. member states shall also require that contracting authorities and contracting entities take into account , where possible , in view of the nature of the contract , wider sustainability , social , environmental and circular economy aspects in procurement practices with a view to achieving the union’s decarbonisation and zero pollution objectives. where appropriate , and in accordance with the requirements laid down in annex iv , member states shall require contracting authorities and contracting entities to take into account union green public procurement criteria.


### 3. member states shall implement energy efficiency obligation schemes , alternative policy measures , or a combination of both , or programmes or measures financed under an energy efficiency national fund , as a priority among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. member states shall ensure that policy measures implemented pursuant to this article have no adverse effect on those persons. where applicable , member states shall make the best possible use of funding , including public funding , funding facilities established at union level , and revenues from allowances pursuant to article 22(3)(b) with the aim of removing adverse effects and ensuring a just and inclusive energy transition. ### 3. member states shall implement energy efficiency obligation schemes , alternative policy measures , or a combination of both , or programmes or measures financed under an energy efficiency national fund , as a priority among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. member states shall ensure that policy measures implemented pursuant to this article have no adverse short and long term effect on those persons. where applicable , member states shall make the best possible use of funding , including public funding , funding facilities established at union level , and revenues from allowances pursuant to article 22(3)(b) with the aim of removing adverse effects and ensuring a just and inclusive energy transition that also ensures security of supply.


### 3. member states shall implement energy efficiency obligation schemes , alternative policy measures , or a combination of both , or programmes or measures financed under an energy efficiency national fund , as a priority among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. member states shall ensure that policy measures implemented pursuant to this article have no adverse effect on those persons. where applicable , member states shall make the best possible use of funding , including public funding , funding facilities established at union level , and revenues from allowances pursuant to article 22(3)(b) with the aim of removing adverse effects and ensuring a just and inclusive energy transition. ### 3. member states shall implement alternative policy measures or measures financed under an energy efficiency national fund , as a priority among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. member states shall ensure that policy measures implemented pursuant to this article have no adverse effect on those persons. where applicable , member states shall make the best possible use of funding , including public funding , funding facilities established at union level , and revenues from allowances pursuant to article 22(3)(b) with the aim of removing adverse effects and ensuring a just and inclusive energy transition.


### in designing such policy measures , member states shall consider and promote the role of renewable energy communities and citizen energy communities in the contribution to the implementation towards these policy measures. ### in designing such policy measures , member states shall consider and promote the role of renewable energy communities and citizen energy communities in the contribution to the implementation towards these policy measures and shall pay special attention in promoting the active involvement of women in all their diversity and in their different roles of consumers , producers and decision-makers.


### 4. member states may require obligated parties to achieve a share of their energy savings obligation among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. member states may also require obligated parties to achieve energy cost reduction targets and to achieve energy savings by promoting energy efficiency improvement measures , including financial support measures mitigating carbon price effects on smes and micro-smes. ### deleted


### 4. member states may require obligated parties to achieve a share of their energy savings obligation among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. member states may also require obligated parties to achieve energy cost reduction targets and to achieve energy savings by promoting energy efficiency improvement measures , including financial support measures mitigating carbon price effects on smes and micro-smes. ### 4. member states may require obligated parties to achieve a share of their energy savings obligation among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers , inhabitants of structurally disadvantaged regions and , where applicable , people living in social housing. member states may also require obligated parties to achieve energy cost reduction targets and to achieve energy savings by promoting energy efficiency improvement measures , including financial support measures mitigating carbon price effects on smes and micro-smes.


### 5. member states may require obligated parties to work with local authorities or municipalities to promote energy efficiency improvement measures among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. this includes identifying and addressing the specific needs of particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects. to protect people affected by energy poverty vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing , member states shall encourage obligated parties to carry out actions such as renovation of buildings , including social housing , replacement of appliances , financial support and incentives for energy efficiency improvement measures in conformity with national financing and support schemes , or energy audits. ### deleted


### 5. member states may require obligated parties to work with local authorities or municipalities to promote energy efficiency improvement measures among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. this includes identifying and addressing the specific needs of particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects. to protect people affected by energy poverty vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing , member states shall encourage obligated parties to carry out actions such as renovation of buildings , including social housing , replacement of appliances , financial support and incentives for energy efficiency improvement measures in conformity with national financing and support schemes , or energy audits. ### 5. member states may require obligated parties to work with local authorities or municipalities to promote energy efficiency improvement measures among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers , inhabitants of structurally disadvantaged regions and , where applicable , people living in social housing. this includes identifying and addressing the specific needs of particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects. to protect people affected by energy poverty vulnerable customers , inhabitants of structurally disadvantaged regions and , where applicable , people living in social housing , member states shall encourage obligated parties to carry out actions such as renovation of buildings , including social housing , replacement of appliances , financial support and incentives for energy efficiency improvement measures in conformity with national financing and support schemes , or energy audits.


### 5. member states may require obligated parties to work with local authorities or municipalities to promote energy efficiency improvement measures among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. this includes identifying and addressing the specific needs of particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects. to protect people affected by energy poverty vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing , member states shall encourage obligated parties to carry out actions such as renovation of buildings , including social housing , replacement of appliances , financial support and incentives for energy efficiency improvement measures in conformity with national financing and support schemes , or energy audits. ### 5. member states may require obligated parties to work with local authorities or municipalities to promote cost-effective energy efficiency improvement measures among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. this includes identifying and addressing the specific needs of particular groups at risk of energy poverty or more susceptible to its effects. to protect people affected by energy poverty vulnerable customers and , where advantageous to all parties involved , people living in social housing , member states shall encourage obligated parties to carry out actions such as renovation of buildings , including social housing , replacement of appliances , financial support and incentives for energy efficiency improvement measures in conformity with national financing and support schemes , or energy audits.


### 6. member states shall require obligated parties to report on an annual basis on the energy savings achieved by the obligated parties from actions promoted among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing , and shall require aggregated statistical information on their final customers (identifying changes in energy savings to previously submitted information) and regarding technical and financial support provided. ### deleted


### 6. member states shall require obligated parties to report on an annual basis on the energy savings achieved by the obligated parties from actions promoted among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing , and shall require aggregated statistical information on its final customers (identifying changes in energy savings to previously submitted information) and regarding technical and financial support provided. ### 6. member states shall require obligated parties to report on an annual basis on the energy savings achieved by the obligated parties from actions promoted among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers , inhabitants of structurally disadvantaged regions and , where applicable , people living in social housing , and shall require aggregated statistical information on its final customers (identifying changes in energy savings to previously submitted information) and regarding technical and financial support provided.


### 3. member states shall establish appropriate conditions for market actors to provide adequate and targeted information and advice to final consumers , including vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing on energy efficiency. ### 3. member states shall establish appropriate conditions for market actors to provide adequate , targeted and easy to digest information and advice to final consumers , including vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing on energy efficiency.


### 1. member states shall take appropriate measures to empower and protect those affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where appropriate , social housing. ### 1. member states shall take appropriate measures to empower and protect those affected , whether actually or potentially , by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where appropriate , social housing.


### e) foster technical assistance for social actors to promote vulnerable customer´s active engagement in the energy market , and positive changes in their energy consumption behaviour; ### e) foster technical assistance for social actors to promote vulnerable customer´s active engagement in the energy market and positive changes in their energy consumption behaviour; special consideration should be made on involving women , given their role as societal agents of change;


### 4. member states shall establish a network of experts from various sectors such as health sector , building sector and social sectors to develop strategies to support local and national decision makers in implementing energy efficiency improvement measures alleviating energy poverty , measures to generate robust long term solutions to mitigate energy poverty and to develop appropriate technical assistance and financial tools. member states shall strive to ensure a network of experts’ composition that ensures gender balance and reflects the perspectives of people in all their diversity. ### 4. member states shall establish a network of experts from various sectors such as health sector , building sector and social sectors , involving a more meaningful participation of women , to develop strategies to support local and national decision makers in implementing energy efficiency improvement measures alleviating energy poverty , measures to generate robust long term solutions to mitigate energy poverty and to develop appropriate technical assistance and financial tools. member states shall strive to ensure a network of experts’ composition that ensures gender balance and reflects the perspectives of people in all their diversity , notably to tackle gender impairment , promote age sensitive development of technologies and applications , incentivise a gender-inclusive energy planning and considering the diverse impacts of the energy transition on women in all their diversity , families , single-parents and elderly people;


### 2. member states shall ensure that the public is given the opportunity to participate in the preparation of heating and cooling plans , the comprehensive assessment and the policies and measures. ### 2. member states shall ensure that the public , as well as the main industry stakeholders among others , are given the opportunity to participate in the preparation of heating and cooling plans , the comprehensive assessment and the policies and measures.


### 1. member states shall ensure the appropriate level of competences for energy efficiency professions that corresponds to the market needs. member states in close cooperation with the social partners shall ensure that certification and/or equivalent qualification schemes , including , where necessary , suitable training programmes , are available for energy efficiency professions including providers of energy services , providers of energy audits , energy managers , independent experts and installers of building elements pursuant to directive 2010/31/eu , and are reliable and contribute to national energy efficiency objectives and the overall eu decarbonisation objectives. ### 1. member states shall ensure the appropriate level and availability of competences for energy efficiency professions that corresponds to the market needs , also through the use of national and eu funds and programmes to effectively support lifelong learning and training in steam areas , in particular in the area of engineering and especially for women and girls , as well as to establish campaigns or awards for businesses who take exemplary measures to improve women’s presence in the green and digital economy and to create additional incentives to increase visibility of women as role models and promote their access to these sectors in universities and employment. member states in close cooperation with the social partners shall ensure that certification and/or equivalent qualification schemes , including , where necessary , suitable training programmes , especially for women and girls , are available for energy efficiency professions including providers of energy services , providers of energy audits , energy managers , independent experts and installers of building elements pursuant to directive 2010/31/eu , and are reliable and contribute to national energy efficiency objectives and the overall eu decarbonisation objectives.


### 2. the commission shall , where appropriate , directly or via the european financial institutions , assist member states in setting up financing facilities and project development assistance facilities at national , regional or local level with the aim of increasing investments in energy efficiency in different sectors , and protecting and empowering vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing including by integrating an equality perspective so that no one is left behind . ### 2. the commission shall , where appropriate , directly or via the european financial institutions , assist member states in setting up financing facilities and project development assistance facilities at national , regional or local level with the aim of increasing investments in energy efficiency in different sectors , and protecting and empowering vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing including by integrating an equality perspective so that no one is left behind and negatively economically affected , both in short and long term.


### 3. member states shall adopt measures that ensure that energy efficiency lending products , such as green mortgages and green loans , secured and unsecured , are offered widely and in a non-discriminatory manner by financial institutions and , are visible and accessible to consumers. member states shall adopt measures to facilitate the implementation of on-bill and on-tax financing schemes. member states shall ensure that t banks and other financial institutions receive information on opportunities to participate in the financing of energy efficiency improvement measures , including through the creation of public/private partnerships. ### 3. member states shall adopt measures that ensure that energy efficiency lending products , such as green mortgages and green loans , secured and unsecured , are offered widely and in a non-discriminatory manner by financial institutions and , are visible and accessible to consumers , with special consideration to women in all their diversity , given their potential role as agents of change in society. member states shall adopt measures to facilitate the implementation of on-bill and on-tax financing schemes. member states shall ensure that t banks and other financial institutions receive information on opportunities to participate in the financing of energy efficiency improvement measures , including through the creation of public/private partnerships.


### 3. member states shall adopt measures that ensure that energy efficiency lending products , such as green mortgages and green loans , secured and unsecured , are offered widely and in a non-discriminatory manner by financial institutions and , are visible and accessible to consumers. member states shall adopt measures to facilitate the implementation of on-bill and on-tax financing schemes. member states shall ensure that t banks and other financial institutions receive information on opportunities to participate in the financing of energy efficiency improvement measures , including through the creation of public/private partnerships. ### 3. member states shall adopt measures and allocate adequate funding energy efficiency lending products and other incentives , such as green mortgages , green loans , secured and unsecured as well as green grants are offered widely and in a non-discriminatory manner by financial institutions and , where applicable , relevant government agencies , and , are visible and accessible to all qualifying consumers. member states shall adopt measures to facilitate the implementation of on-bill and on-tax financing schemes. member states shall ensure that banks and other financial institutions receive information on opportunities to participate in the financing of energy efficiency improvement measures , including through the creation of public/private partnerships.


### 9. member states may set up an energy efficiency national fund. the purpose of this fund shall be to implement energy efficiency measures , including measures pursuant to article 8(3) and article 22 as a priority among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing , and to implement national energy efficiency measures to support member states in meeting their national energy efficiency contributions and their indicative trajectories referred to in article 4(2). the energy efficiency national fund may be financed with revenues from the allowance auctions pursuant to the eu emission trading system on buildings and transport sectors. ### 9. member states may set up an energy efficiency national fund. the purpose of this fund shall be to implement energy efficiency measures , including measures pursuant to article 8(3) and article 22 as a priority among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing and shall pay particular attention to women in all their diversity. the fund shall also be used to implement national energy efficiency measures to support member states in meeting their national energy efficiency contributions and their indicative trajectories referred to in article 4(2). the energy efficiency national fund may be financed with revenues from the allowance auctions pursuant to the eu emission trading system on buildings and transport sectors.


### 9. member states may set up an energy efficiency national fund. the purpose of this fund shall be to implement energy efficiency measures , including measures pursuant to article 8(3) and article 22 as a priority among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing , and to implement national energy efficiency measures to support member states in meeting their national energy efficiency contributions and their indicative trajectories referred to in article 4(2). the energy efficiency national fund may be financed with revenues from the allowance auctions pursuant to the eu emission trading system on buildings and transport sectors. ### 9. member states may set up an energy efficiency national fund , without the requirement to set up a new administrative agency. the purpose of this fund shall be to implement energy efficiency measures , including measures pursuant to article 8(3) and article 22 as a priority among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing , and to implement national energy efficiency measures to support member states in meeting their national energy efficiency contributions and their indicative trajectories referred to in article 4(2). the energy efficiency national fund may be financed with revenues from the allowance auctions pursuant to the eu emission trading system on buildings and transport sectors. the fund's financial resources shall by no means be used to finance any other initiatives or objectives that do not directly promote energy efficiency measures.


### be based on up-to-date , measured , traceable operational data on energy consumption and (for electricity) load profiles; ### be based on up-to-date , measured , traceable and , where possible , sex-disaggregated operational data on energy consumption and (for electricity) load profiles;


### in order to enable final users to regulate their own energy consumption , billing shall take place on the basis of actual consumption or heat cost allocator readings at least once per year. ### in order to enable final users to regulate their own energy consumption , billing shall take place on the basis of actual consumption or heat cost allocator readings at least once per year.


### 1. in conformity with the energy efficiency first principle , member states shall ensure that energy efficiency solutions are taken into account in the planning , policy and major investment decisions related to the following sectors: ### 1. in conformity with the energy efficiency first principle , member states shall ensure that energy efficiency solutions , in addition to system efficiency , cost-efficiency , security of supply and the life cycle approach , are taken into account in the planning , policy and major investment decisions related to the following sectors:


### 1. in conformity with the energy efficiency first principle , member states shall ensure that energy efficiency solutions are taken into account in the planning , policy and major investment decisions related to the following sectors: ### 1. in conformity with the energy efficiency first principle , member states shall ensure that cost-effective and technically feasible energy efficiency solutions are taken into account in the planning , policy and major investment decisions related to the following sectors:


### 2. member states shall ensure that the application of the energy efficiency first principle is verified by the relevant entities where policy , planning and investment decisions are subject to approval and monitoring requirements. ### 2. member states shall ensure that the application of the energy efficiency first principle is verified by the relevant entities where policy , planning and investment decisions are subject to environmental impact assessment and approval and monitoring requirements.


### identify an entity responsible for monitoring the application of the energy efficiency first principle and the impacts of planning , policy and investment decisions on energy consumption and energy efficiency; ### identify an entity responsible for monitoring and evaluating the appropriate application of the energy efficiency first principle , the impacts of the application of the energy efficiency first principle , and the impacts of planning , policy and investment decisions on energy consumption and energy efficiency;


### 1. member states shall collectively ensure a reduction of energy consumption of at least 9 % in 2030 compared to the projections of the 2020 reference scenario so that the union’s final energy consumption amounts to no more than 787 mtoe and the union’s primary energy consumption amounts to no more than 1023 mtoe in 2030.91 ### 1. member states shall collectively ensure an increase of energy efficiency of at least 9 % in 2030 compared to the projections of the 2020 reference scenario.


### 2. each member state shall set national energy efficiency contributions for final and primary energy consumption to meet , collectively , the binding union target set in paragraph 1 . member states shall notify those contributions together with an indicative trajectory for those contributions to the commission as part of the updates of their integrated national energy and climate plans in accordance with article 14 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , and as part of their integrated national energy and climate plans as referred to in , and in accordance with , the procedure set out in article 3 and articles 7 to 12 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 . when doing so , member states shall use the formula defined in annex i of this directive and explain how , and on the basis of which data , the contributions have been calculated. ### 2. each member state shall set indicative national energy efficiency contributions for final and primary energy consumption to meet , collectively , the binding union target set in paragraph 1 . member states shall notify those contributions together with an indicative trajectory for those contributions to the commission as part of the updates of their integrated national energy and climate plans in accordance with article 14 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , and as part of their integrated national energy and climate plans as referred to in , and in accordance with , the procedure set out in article 3 and articles 7 to 12 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 . when doing so , member states shall use the formula defined in annex i of this directive and explain how , and on the basis of which data , the contributions have been calculated.


### gdp evolution and forecast; ### gdp evolution and forecast as well as relevant fiscal capacity;


### 3. where the commission concludes , on the basis of its assessment pursuant to article 29(1) and (3) of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , that insufficient progress has been made towards meeting the energy efficiency contributions , member states that are above their indicative trajectories referred to in paragraph 2 of this article shall ensure that additional measures are implemented within one year following the date of reception of the commission's assessment in order to ensure getting back on track to reach their energy efficiency contributions. those additional measures shall include , but shall not be limited to , the following measures: ### 3. where the commission concludes , on the basis of its assessment pursuant to article 29(1) and (3) of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , that insufficient progress has been made towards meeting the energy efficiency contributions , except in cases where there were provable economic constraints , member states that are above their indicative trajectories referred to in paragraph 2 of this article shall ensure that additional measures are implemented within one year following the date of reception of the commission's assessment in order to ensure getting back on track to reach their energy efficiency contributions. those additional measures shall include , but shall not be limited to , the following measures:


### 1. member states shall ensure that the total final energy consumption of all public bodies combined is reduced by at least 1 ,7% each year , when compared to the year x-2 (with x as the year when this directive enters into force). ### 1. member states shall ensure that the total final energy consumption of all public bodies combined is reduced by 1 ,7% each year , when compared to the year x-2 (with x as the year when this directive enters into force) or other relevant rate to reach union and national climate targets , considering member state context for the need and profitability of energy efficiency , available financial , workforce and material resources for renovation , population growth , urbanisation and other relevant factors. the requirement shall be adjusted towards the economy at large , considering potential efficiency gains from electrification of transport and industry etc. the level of the reference year shall be adjusted to neutralise short term effects on energy use in public activities due to the covid-19 pandemic.


### member states may take into account climatic variations within the member state when calculating their public bodies’ final energy consumption. ### member states may take into account climatic variations within the territory of the member state concerned when calculating their public bodies’ final energy consumption.


### 4. member states shall support public bodies in the uptake of energy efficiency improvement measures , including at regional and local levels , by providing guidelines , promoting competence building and training opportunities and encouraging cooperation amongst public bodies. ### 4. member states shall support public bodies in the uptake of energy efficiency improvement measures , including at regional and local levels , by providing financial and technical support and submitting plans addressing the lack of workforce needed for all stages of the green transition , including craftsmen as well as high-skilled green technology experts , applied scientists and innovators. member states shall encourage public bodies to take into account the wider benefits beyond energy savings , such as indoor air and environmental quality as well as the improvement of quality of life , especially for schools , nursing homes , hospitals and social housing. member states shall provide guidelines , promote competence building and training opportunities and encourage cooperation amongst public bodies.


### 4. member states shall support public bodies in the uptake of energy efficiency improvement measures , including at regional and local levels , by providing guidelines , promoting competence building and training opportunities and encouraging cooperation amongst public bodies. ### 4. member states , subject to their administrative capacity , shall support public bodies in the uptake of energy efficiency improvement measures , including at regional and local levels , by providing guidelines , promoting competence building and training opportunities and encouraging cooperation amongst public bodies.


### 1. without prejudice to article 7 of directive 2010/31/eu of the european parliament and of the council92 , each member state shall ensure that at least 3 % of the total floor area of heated and/or cooled buildings owned by public bodies is renovated each year to at least be transformed into nearly zero-energy buildings in accordance with article 9 of directive 2010/31/eu. ### 1. without prejudice to article 7 of directive 2010/31/eu of the european parliament and of the council92 , each member state shall ensure that 3 % , or other relevant share or measures to reach the energy efficiency rate in article 5 of this directive , of the total floor area of heated and/or cooled buildings owned by public bodies is deep or stage-deep renovated each year or on average per year towards 2030 to be transformed into nearly zero-energy buildings in accordance with article 9 of directive 2010/31/eu. to achieve this goal , member states may


### (1) without prejudice to article 7 of directive 2010/31/eu of the european parliament and of the council92 , each member state shall ensure that at least 3 % of the total floor area of heated and/or cooled buildings owned by public bodies is renovated each year to at least be transformed into nearly zero-energy buildings in accordance with article 9 of directive 2010/31/eu. ### (1) without prejudice to article 7 of directive 2010/31/eu of the european parliament and of the council92 , each member state shall ensure that at least 3 % of the total floor area of heated and/or cooled buildings owned by public bodies is renovated each year to at least be transformed into nearly zero-energy buildings in accordance with article 9 of directive 2010/31/eu , insofar as this is technically and economically feasible.


### 1. without prejudice to article 7 of directive 2010/31/eu of the european parliament and of the council92 , each member state shall ensure that at least 3 % of the total floor area of heated and/or cooled buildings owned by public bodies is renovated each year to at least be transformed into nearly zero-energy buildings in accordance with article 9 of directive 2010/31/eu. ### 1. without prejudice to article 7 of directive 2010/31/eu of the european parliament and of the council92 , each member state shall ensure that at least 3 % of the total floor area of heated and/or cooled buildings owned by public bodies is renovated each year to be transformed at least into nearly zero-energy buildings in accordance with article 9 of directive 2010/31/eu.


### where public bodies occupy a building that they do not own , they shall exercise their contractual rights to the extent possible and encourage the building owner to renovate the building to a nearly zero-energy building in accordance with article 9 of directive 2010/31/eu. when concluding a new contract for occupying a building they do not own , public bodies shall aim for that building to fall into the top two energy efficiency classes on the energy performance certificate. ### where public bodies occupy a building that they do not own , they shall exercise their contractual rights to the extent possible and encourage the building owner to renovate the building to a nearly zero-energy building in accordance with article 9 of directive 2010/31/eu. when concluding a new contract for occupying a building they do not own , public bodies shall aim for that building to fall into the top two energy efficiency classes on the energy performance certificate and shall always prefer such a building when concluding a contract , if it is economically advantageous in the long term.


### 1. member states shall ensure that contracting authorities and contracting entities , when concluding public contracts and concessions with a value equal to or greater than the thresholds laid down in article 8 of directive 2014/23/eu , article 4 of directive 2014/24/eu and article 15 of directive 2014/25/eu , purchase only products , services , buildings and works with high energy-efficiency performance in accordance with the requirements referred to in annex iv to this directive . ### 1. member states shall ensure that contracting authorities and contracting entities , when concluding public contracts and concessions with a value equal to or greater than the thresholds laid down in article 8 of directive 2014/23/eu , article 4 of directive 2014/24/eu and article 15 of directive 2014/25/eu , purchase only products , services , buildings and works with high energy-efficiency performance in accordance with the requirements referred to in annex iv to this directive , whilst also considering the cost-effectiveness of the relevant purchases.


### 1. member states shall ensure that contracting authorities and contracting entities , when concluding public contracts and concessions with a value equal to or greater than the thresholds laid down in article 8 of directive 2014/23/eu , article 4 of directive 2014/24/eu and article 15 of directive 2014/25/eu , purchase only products , services , buildings and works with high energy-efficiency performance in accordance with the requirements referred to in annex iv to this directive . ### 1. member states shall encourage contracting authorities and contracting entities , with respect the principle of local self-government enshrined in article 4 teu when concluding public contracts and concessions with a value equal to or greater than the thresholds laid down in article 8 of directive 2014/23/eu , article 4 of directive 2014/24/eu and article 15 of directive 2014/25/eu , purchase products , services , buildings and works with high energy-efficiency performance insofar as that is consistent with cost-effectiveness , economical feasibility , wider sustainability , technical suitability , as well as sufficient competition , striving for the criteria referred to in annex iv to this directive .


### 1. member states shall ensure that contracting authorities and contracting entities , when concluding public contracts and concessions with a value equal to or greater than the thresholds laid down in article 8 of directive 2014/23/eu , article 4 of directive 2014/24/eu and article 15 of directive 2014/25/eu , purchase only products , services , buildings and works with high energy-efficiency performance in accordance with the requirements referred to in annex iv to this directive . ### 1. member states shall ensure that contracting authorities and contracting entities , when concluding public contracts and concessions with a value equal to or greater than the thresholds laid down in article 8 of directive 2014/23/eu , article 4 of directive 2014/24/eu and article 15 of directive 2014/25/eu , purchase only products , services , buildings and works with high energy-efficiency performance , insofar as that is consistent with cost-effectiveness , economical feasibility , wider sustainability , technical suitability , security of supply , as well as sufficient competition , in accordance with the requirements referred to in annex iv to this directive .


### to ensure transparency in the application of energy efficiency requirements in the procurement process , member states shall make publicly available information on the energy efficiency impact of contracts with a value equal to or greater than the thresholds referred to in paragraph 1. contracting authorities may decide to require that tenderers disclose information on the life cycle global warming potential of a new building and may make that information publically available for the contracts , in particular for new buildings having a floor area larger than 2000 square meters. ### to ensure transparency in the application of energy efficiency requirements in the procurement process , member states shall make publicly available information on the energy efficiency impact of contracts with a value equal to or greater than the thresholds referred to in paragraph 1. contracting authorities may decide to require that tenderers disclose information on the life cycle global warming potential of a new building , including the use of low carbon materials and the circularity of the materials used , and may make that information publically available for the contracts , in particular for new buildings having a floor area larger than 2000 square meters.


### 6. member states shall establish legal and regulatory provisions , and administrative practices , regarding public purchasing and annual budgeting and accounting , necessary to ensure that individual contracting authorities are not deterred from making investments in improving energy efficiency and from using energy performance contracting and third-party financing mechanisms on a long-term contractual basis. ### 6. where these are not in place already , member states shall establish legal and regulatory provisions , and administrative practices , regarding public purchasing and annual budgeting and accounting , necessary to ensure that individual contracting authorities are not deterred from making investments in improving energy efficiency and from using energy performance contracting and third-party financing mechanisms on a long-term contractual basis.


### new savings each year from 1 january 2024 to 31 december 2030 of 1 ,5 % of annual final energy consumption , averaged over the three-year period prior to 1 january 2020. ### new savings each year from 1 january 2026 to 31 december 2030 of 1 % of annual final energy consumption , averaged over the three-year period prior to 1 january 2020.


### member states shall achieve a share of the required amount of cumulative end-use energy savings among people affected by energy poverty vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. this share shall at least equal the proportion of households in energy poverty as assessed in their national energy and climate plan established in accordance with article 3(3)(d) of the governance regulation 2018/1999. if a member state had not notified the share of households in energy poverty as assessed in their national energy and climate plan , the share of the required amount of cumulative end-use energy savings among people affected by energy poverty vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing , shall at least equal the arithmetic average share of the following indicators for the year 2019 or , if not available for 2019 , for the linear extrapolation of their values for the last three years that are available: ### member states shall achieve a share of the required amount of cumulative end-use energy savings among people affected by energy poverty vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. this share shall at least equal the proportion of households in energy poverty as assessed in their national energy and climate plan established in accordance with article 3(3)(d) of the governance regulation 2018/1999. if a member state had not notified the share of households in energy poverty as assessed in their national energy and climate plan , the share of the required amount of cumulative end-use energy savings among people affected by energy poverty , inhabitants of structurally disadvantaged regions , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing , shall at least equal the arithmetic average share of the following indicators for the year 2019 or , if not available for 2019 , for the linear extrapolation of their values for the last three years that are available:


### 2. member states shall designate , on the basis of objective and non-discriminatory criteria , obligated parties among transmission system operators , energy distributors , retail energy sales companies and transport fuel distributors or transport fuel retailers operating in their territory. the amount of energy savings needed to fulfil the obligation shall be achieved by the obligated parties among final customers , designated by the member state , independently of the calculation made pursuant to article 8(1) or , if member states so decide , through certified savings stemming from other parties as described in point (a) of paragraph 10 of this article. ### 2. member states shall designate , on the basis of objective and non-discriminatory criteria , obligated parties among energy distributors , retail energy sales companies and transport fuel distributors or transport fuel retailers operating in their territory. the amount of energy savings needed to fulfil the obligation shall be achieved by the obligated parties among final customers , designated by the member state , independently of the calculation made pursuant to article 8(1) or , if member states so decide , through certified savings stemming from other parties as described in point (a) of paragraph 10 of this article.


### 3. where retail energy sales companies are designated as obligated parties under paragraph 2 , member states shall ensure that , in fulfilling their obligation , retail energy sales companies do not create any barriers that impede consumers from switching from one supplier to another. ### 3. where retail energy sales companies are designated as obligated parties under paragraph 2 , member states shall ensure that , in fulfilling their obligation , retail energy sales companies do not create any implicit or explicit barriers that impede consumers from switching from one supplier to another.


### member states shall assess and , if appropriate , take measures to minimise the impact of the direct and indirect costs of energy efficiency obligation schemes on the competitiveness of energy-intensive industries exposed to international competition. ### member states shall assess and , if appropriate , take measures to minimise the impact of the direct and indirect costs of energy efficiency obligation schemes on the competitiveness of energy-intensive industries exposed to international competition. these measures can only be taken to support those sectors that will not be phased out in the short or medium term in accordance with other legally binding union legislation on climate protection.


### 1. member states shall ensure that enterprises with an average annual consumption higher than 100tj of energy over the previous three years and taking all energy carriers together , implement an energy management system. the energy management system shall be certified by an independent body according to the relevant european or international standards. ### deleted


### 1. member states shall ensure that enterprises with an average annual consumption higher than 100tj of energy over the previous three years and taking all energy carriers together , implement an energy management system. the energy management system shall be certified by an independent body according to the relevant european or international standards. ### 1. member states shall ensure that enterprises with an average annual consumption higher than 100tj of energy over the previous three years and taking all energy carriers together , implement an energy management system. member states may build upon existing systems to avoid unnecessary additional bureaucracy and costs. the energy management system shall be certified by an independent body according to the relevant european or international standards.


### 2. member states shall ensure that enterprises with an average annual consumption higher than 10tj of energy over the previous three years and taking all energy carriers together that do not implement an energy management system are subject to an energy audit. energy audits shall be carried out in an independent and cost-effective manner by qualified or accredited experts in accordance with requirements provided in article 26 or implemented and supervised by independent authorities under national legislation. energy audits shall be carried out at least every four years from the date of the previous energy audit. ### 2. member states shall ensure that enterprises with an average annual consumption higher than 50tj of energy over the previous three years and taking all energy carriers together that do not implement an energy management system are subject to an energy audit. energy audits shall be carried out in an independent and cost-effective manner by qualified or accredited experts in accordance with requirements provided in article 26 or implemented and supervised by independent authorities under national legislation. energy audits shall be carried out at least every four years from the date of the previous energy audit.


### the results of the energy audits including the recommendations from these audits shall be transmitted to the management of the enterprise. member states shall ensure that the results and the implemented recommendations are published in the enterprise’s annual report , where applicable. ### the results of the energy audits including the recommendations from these audits shall be transmitted to the management of the enterprise.


### the results of the energy audits including the recommendations from these audits shall be transmitted to the management of the enterprise. member states shall ensure that the results and the implemented recommendations are published in the enterprise’s annual report , where applicable. ### the results of the energy audits including the recommendations from these audits shall be transmitted to the management of the enterprise. member states shall ensure that the results and the implemented recommendations are published in the enterprise’s annual report , where applicable. member states shall further ensure that company and business secrets are being protected.


### the energy audits referred to in the first subparagraph may be carried out by in-house experts or energy auditors provided that the member state concerned has put in place a scheme to assure and check their quality , including , if appropriate , an annual random selection of at least a statistically significant percentage of all the energy audits they carry out. ### the energy audits referred to in the first subparagraph may be carried out by in-house experts or energy auditors provided that the member state concerned has put in place a scheme to assure and check their impartiality , expertise and quality , including , if appropriate , an annual random selection of at least a statistically significant percentage of all the energy audits they carry out.


### 10. without prejudice to paragraphs 1 to 9 , member states shall require , by 15 march 2024 and every year thereafter , owners and operators of every data centre in their territory with a significant energy consumption to make publicly available the information set out in annex vi (`minimum requirements for monitoring and publishing the energy performance of data centres´) , which member states shall subsequently report to the commission. ### 10. without prejudice to paragraphs 1 to 9 , member states shall require , by 15 march 2024 and every year thereafter , owners and operators of every data centre in their territory with a significant energy consumption to make publicly available the information set out in annex vi in a harmonised pre-defined format (`minimum requirements for monitoring and publishing the energy performance of data centres´) , which member states shall subsequently report to the commission.


### (6) energy efficiency is a key area of action , without which the full decarbonisation of the union´s economy cannot be achieved47 . the need to capture the cost-effective energy saving opportunities has led to the union´s current energy efficiency policy. in december 2018 , a new 2030 union headline energy efficiency target of at least 32 ,5% (compared to projected energy use in 2030) was included as part of the 'clean energy for all europeans package’. ### (6) energy efficiency is amongst the key areas of action , without which the full decarbonisation of the union´s economy cannot be as easily achieved47 . the need to capture the cost-effective energy saving opportunities has led to the union´s current energy efficiency policy. in december 2018 , a new 2030 union headline energy efficiency target of at least 32 ,5% (compared to projected energy use in 2030) was included as part of the 'clean energy for all europeans package’.


### (8) the sum of national contributions communicated by member states in their national energy and climate plans (necps) falls short of the union’s level of ambition of 32 ,5%. the contributions collectively would lead to a reduction of 29 ,4% for final energy consumption and 29 ,7% for primary energy consumption compared to the projections from the 2007 reference scenario for 2030. that would translate in a collective gap of 2 ,8 percentage points for primary energy consumption and 3 ,1 percentage points for final energy consumption for the eu 27. ### (8) the sum of national contributions communicated by member states in their national energy and climate plans (necps) falls short of the union’s level of ambition of 32 ,5%. the contributions collectively would lead to a reduction of 29 ,4% for final energy consumption and 29 ,7% for primary energy consumption compared to the projections from the 2007 reference scenario for 2030. that would translate in a collective gap of 2 ,8 percentage points for primary energy consumption and 3 ,1 percentage points for final energy consumption for the eu 27. to deliver the union's energy efficiency target , each member state needs to proportionally and based on its economic ability contribute to closing the gap.


### (9) while the energy savings potential remains large in all sectors , there is a particular challenge related to transport , as it is responsible for more than 30% of final energy consumption , and to buildings , since 75% of the union´s building stock has a poor energy performance. another increasingly important sector is the information and communications technology (ict) sector , which is responsible for 5-9% of the world's total electricity use and more than 2% of all emissions. in 2018 , data centres accounted for 2 ,7% of the electricity demand in the eu28.48 in that context , the union’s digital strategy49 highlighted the need for highly energy-efficient and sustainable data centres and transparency measures for telecoms operators as regards their environmental footprint. furthermore , the possible increase in industry’s energy demand that may result from its decarbonisation , particularly for energy intensive processes , should also be taken into account. ### (9) while the energy savings potential remains large in all sectors , there is a particular challenge related to transport , as it is responsible for more than 30% of final energy consumption and the energy saving potential within the sector is far from exhausted as well as to buildings , since 75% of the union´s building stock has a poor energy performance , with significant differences amongst the member states. another increasingly important sector is the information and communications technology (ict) sector , which is responsible for 5-9% of the world's total electricity use and more than 2% of all emissions , while acknowledging the efforts already made by the relevant sector. in 2018 , data centres accounted for 2 ,7% of the electricity demand in the eu28.48 in that context , the union’s digital strategy49 highlighted the need for highly energy-efficient and sustainable data centres and transparency measures for telecoms operators as regards their environmental footprint. furthermore , the possible increase in industry’s energy demand that may result from its decarbonisation , particularly for energy intensive processes , should also be taken into account.


### (9) while the energy savings potential remains large in all sectors , there is a particular challenge related to transport , as it is responsible for more than 30% of final energy consumption , and to buildings , since 75% of the union´s building stock has a poor energy performance. another increasingly important sector is the information and communications technology (ict) sector , which is responsible for 5-9% of the world's total electricity use and more than 2% of all emissions. in 2018 , data centres accounted for 2 ,7% of the electricity demand in the eu28. energy-efficient cloud computing technologies and policies for an eco-friendly cloud market. in that context , the union’s digital strategy48 highlighted the need for highly energy-efficient and sustainable data centres and transparency measures for telecoms operators as regards their environmental footprint. furthermore , the possible increase in industry’s energy demand that may result from its decarbonisation , particularly for energy intensive processes , should also be taken into account.49 ### (9) while the energy savings potential remains large in all sectors , there is a particular challenge related to transport , as it is responsible for more than 30% of final energy consumption , and to buildings , since 75% of the union´s building stock has a poor energy performance. another increasingly important sector is the information and communications technology (ict) sector , which is responsible for 5-9% of the world's total electricity use and more than 2% of all emissions. in 2018 , data centres accounted for 2.7% of the electricity demand in the eu28 , and can reasonably be expected to continue to grow substantially without the adoption of appropriate measures. in that context , the union’s digital strategy48 highlighted the need for highly energy-efficient and sustainable data centres and transparency measures for telecoms operators as regards their environmental footprint. furthermore , the possible increase in industry’s energy demand that may result from its decarbonisation , particularly for energy intensive processes , should also be taken into account.49


### (13) the energy efficiency first principle was defined in the regulation (eu) 2018/1999 of the european parliament and of the council51 and is at the core of the energy system integration strategy52 . while the principle is based on cost-effectiveness , its application has wider implications , which can vary depending on the circumstances. the commission prepared dedicated guidelines for the operation and application of the principle , by proposing specific tools and examples of application in various sectors. the commission has also issued a recommendation to member states that builds on the requirements of this directive and calls for specific actions in relation to the application of the principle. ### (13) the energy efficiency first principle was defined in the regulation (eu) 2018/1999 of the european parliament and of the council51 and is at the core of the energy system integration strategy52 . while the principle is based on cost-effectiveness , its application has wider implications , which can vary depending on the circumstances. the commission prepared dedicated guidelines for the operation and application of the principle , by proposing specific tools and examples of application in various sectors. the commission has also issued a recommendation to member states that builds on the requirements of this directive and calls for specific actions in relation to the application of the principle , without prejudice to other priorities as regards to energy policy.


### (14) in order to have an impact , the energy efficiency first principle needs to be consistently applied by decision makers in all relevant policy , planning and major investment decisions – that is to say large-scale investments with a value of more than 50 euro million each or 75 euro million for transport infrastructure projects – affecting energy consumption or supply. the proper application of the principle requires using the right cost-benefit analysis methodology , setting enabling conditions for energy efficient solutions and proper monitoring. demand side flexibility can bring significant benefits to consumers and to society at large , and can increase the efficiency of the energy system and decrease the energy costs , for example by reducing system operation costs resulting in lower tariffs for all consumers. member states should take into account potential benefits from demand side flexibility in applying the energy efficiency first principle and where relevant consider demand response , energy storage and smart solutions as part of their efforts to increase efficiency of the integrated energy system. ### (14) in order to have an impact , the energy efficiency first principle needs to be consistently applied by decision makers in all relevant policy , planning and major investment decisions – that is to say large-scale investments with a value of more than 50 euro million each or 75 euro million for transport infrastructure projects – affecting energy consumption or supply , whilst at the same time considering the cost-effectiveness of the application of the relevant principle. as such , the proper application of the principle requires using the right cost-benefit analysis methodology , setting enabling conditions for energy efficient solutions and proper monitoring. demand side flexibility can bring significant benefits to consumers and to society at large , and can increase the efficiency of the energy system and decrease the energy costs , for example by reducing system operation costs resulting in lower tariffs for all consumers. member states should take into account potential benefits from demand side flexibility in applying the energy efficiency first principle and where relevant consider demand response , energy storage and smart solutions as part of their efforts to increase efficiency of the integrated energy system.