### 6. calls for sufficient funding and staffing for eu agencies , and in particular for the european institute of innovation and technology , the eu agency for the space programme and the eu agency for the cooperation of energy regulators. ### 6. calls for sufficient funding and staffing for eu agencies , especially in the technology areas where europe can play a central global role , in particular for the european institute of innovation and technology , the eu agency for the space programme and the eu agency for the cooperation of energy regulators. these areas are becoming increasingly important to ensure our economic and ecological stability , as listed in point 3 space , especially healthcare , microchips , blockchain , quantum computing and ai.


### 6. stresses that agriculture played a strategic role in food supply during the pandemic , and calls on the commission to defend european food sovereignty and reduce dependence on non-eu countries; ### 6. stresses that european farmers continue to play a strategic role in food supply during the pandemic , and calls on the commission to defend european food sovereignty and reduce dependence on non-eu countries; welcomes the commission contingency plan for ensuring food supply and food security in times of crisis and the establishment of the european food security crisis preparedness and response mechanism (efscm); points out that the lack of coordination on emergency procedures and different interpretations of the measures put in place by the eu in member states cannot guarantee the smooth functioning of the single market; welcomes therefore the role of efscm in aiming to improve the level of preparedness and the cooperation between the sectors; calls on the commission to introduce measures to address the vulnerabilities of the agri-food sector to crises also as part of the farm to fork strategy;


### 7. stresses the importance of suitable funding for preventing and combating gender-based violence within daphne; calls on the commission to increase budget allocation to civil society organisations that promote women’s rights in europe and beyond , including sexual and reproductive health and rights; ### 7. stresses the importance of increasing funding for preventing and combating gender-based violence within daphne; calls on the commission to increase budget allocation to civil society organisations that promote women’s rights in europe and beyond , including sexual and reproductive health and rights;


### 8. considers it essential to union competitiveness to further digitalise the economy and the public sector; believes that a successful digital transition requires research and innovation efforts under horizon europe , significant investment in digital infrastructure through cef-digital , and support in areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity through the digital europe programme; points to the need to tackle the digital skills gap by promoting advanced digital skills; ### 8. considers it essential to union competitiveness to further digitalise the economy and the public sector while overcoming fragmentation and ensuring a level-playing field for all economic actors , ensuring labour rights and decent jobs for all workers , including for non-standard and platform workers and fully respecting the gdpr; acknowledges the advantages brought by digital transformation and artificial intelligence in regards to the creation of new jobs; stresses , however , that automatisation and artificial intelligence (ai) might also lead to loss of jobs and disruptions in the labour market and recalls the need for adequate protection of workers affected by these changes and the need to ensure decent working conditions and the right to disconnect especially in the context of the growing use of ai and telework; stresses the need for unemployment prevention mechanisms and professional reconversion tools to be made available to workers in order to sustainably support the digital transition as well as investments in improving related infrastructures , connectivity , network security , and the future organisation of work; believes that a successful digital transition requires research and innovation efforts under horizon europe , significant investment in digital infrastructure through cef-digital , and support in areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity through the digital europe programme; points to the need to tackle the digital skills gap by promoting advanced digital skills and equal access to such education and training programmes , not least by ensuring that eu funds target advanced digital skills are in line with the socio-economic needs of the future labour market; notes the need for investment in digital skills also for older people and people living in remote areas;


### 8. reiterates the request for separate dedicated budget lines in the cerv specifically targeting measures related to gender-based violence , as well as gender equality and gender mainstreaming; reiterates that this should be the practice for all programmes including goals related to gender equality. ### 8. reiterates the request for separate dedicated budget lines in the cerv specifically targeting measures related to gender-based violence , as well as gender equality and gender mainstreaming; reiterates that all programmes should include goals related to gender equality and should have dedicated budget lines with indicators for gender equality in order to deliver concrete and measurable impact.


### 8. calls on the commission to encourage varietal conversion plans in regions already affected by pathogens; ### 8. calls on the commission to encourage the use of appropriate plant varieties especially with regard to pathogen resistance;


### 9. recognises the contribution of union funding programmes to the economic recovery , and in particular to supporting smes; in that connection , highlights investeu , and its sme window as well as the possibility under the programme for smes negatively affected by the pandemic to receive capital support; highlights the need for sufficient funding for the single market programme; ### 9. recognises the contribution of union funding programmes to the economic recovery , and in particular to supporting smes; recalls that smes remain the backbone of the european economy and continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation; in that connection , highlights investeu , and its sme window as well as the possibility under the programme for smes negatively affected by the pandemic to receive capital support; highlights the need for sufficient funding for the single market programme to boost competitiveness of small business with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills and to further expand opportunities to create and scale-up start-ups;


### 9. recognises the contribution of union funding programmes to the economic recovery , and in particular to supporting smes; in that connection , highlights investeu , and its sme window as well as the possibility under the programme for smes negatively affected by the pandemic to receive capital support; highlights the need for sufficient funding for the single market programme; ### 9. recognises the contribution of union funding programmes to the economic recovery , and in particular to supporting smes and micro-enterprises; in that connection , highlights investeu , and its sme window as well as the possibility under the programme for smes negatively affected by the pandemic to receive financial and technical support; highlights the need for sufficient funding for the single market programme; recalls that small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) constitute the backbone of the european economy and acknowledges their role in the creation of quality jobs and economic prosperity;


### 10. considers it essential for the union’s credibility to ensure the proper use of union funds and to take all steps to protect the union’s financial interests; emphasises the clear link between respect for the rule of law and efficient implementation of the union budget in accordance with the principles of sound financial management; considers that regulation (eu , euratom) 2020/2092 on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the union budget should be applied immediately and in full; believes that adequate resources should be made available to union bodies in this field , such as the european public prosecutor’s office , olaf , or eurojust; ### 10. considers it essential for the union’s credibility to ensure the proper use of union funds and to take all steps to protect the union’s financial interests; emphasises the clear link between respect for the rule of law and efficient implementation of the union budget in accordance with the principles of sound financial management; considers that regulation (eu , euratom) 2020/2092 on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the union budget should be applied immediately and in full; believes that adequate resources should be made available to union bodies in this field , such as the european public prosecutor’s office , olaf , fra or eurojust;


### 11. emphasises that the rule of law protects the other fundamental values on which the union is founded and is intrinsically linked to respect for democracy and fundamental rights; highlights the importance of the citizens , equality , rights and values programme in sustaining and further developing open , rights-based , democratic , equal and inclusive societies; ### 11. emphasises that the rule of law protects the other fundamental values on which the union is founded and is intrinsically linked to respect for democracy and fundamental rights; expresses deep concern at the significant deterioration of rule of law , democracy and fundamental rights , including the independence of the judiciary , separation of powers , the fight against corruption and artistic , academic and media freedom in some member states; calls therefore , for a considerable strengthening of funding devoted to ensure the protection of these fundamental principles; considers that budgetary provisions should reflect the size of these challenges and highlights the importance of the citizens , equality , rights and values programme in sustaining and further developing open , rights-based , democratic , equal and inclusive societies; highlights , in addition , the importance of funding for better promotion of gender equality , combating gender-based violence and promoting women’s rights , including sexual and reproductive health rights and lgbtiq rights across the member states;


### 11. emphasises that the rule of law protects the other fundamental values on which the union is founded and is intrinsically linked to respect for democracy and fundamental rights; highlights the importance of the citizens , equality , rights and values programme in sustaining and further developing open , rights-based , democratic , equal and inclusive societies; ### 11. emphasises that the rule of law protects the other fundamental values on which the union is founded and is intrinsically linked to respect for democracy , fundamental rights and media freedom; stresses that the promotion of european values and cultures plays an active role in supporting democracy , non-discrimination and gender equality , and tackling disinformation and fake news; highlights the importance of the citizens , equality , rights and values programme in sustaining and further developing open , rights-based , democratic , equal and inclusive societies , underlines the need to provide sufficient funding for this programme and to reinforce the resources dedicated to supporting victims of gender-based violence through daphne programme;


### 12. recognises that the covid-19 crisis has had a severe negative impact on young people and has led to lost opportunities and diminished prospects; believes strongly that the 2023 budget should include a focus on youth , building on the momentum of the 2022 european year of youth; highlights the importance of erasmus+ , which should become more inclusive , offering greater opportunities to people from disadvantaged backgrounds; ### 12. recognises that the covid-19 crisis has had a severe negative impact on young people , in particular on their mental health and has led to lost opportunities , less employment perspectives , precarious work situations , financial insecurity and diminished prospects; believes strongly that the 2023 budget should include a focus on youth and assess the impact on youth across policy areas and offer possibilities to support them in new challenges that the pandemic has brought to them , especially as regards mental health , building on the momentum of the 2022 european year of youth and the european pillar of social rights; highlights the importance of the reinforced youth guarantee and erasmus+ , which should become more inclusive and accessible , offering greater diversity and greater opportunities to people from minorities , such as roma people or with a migrant background , the lgbitq+ community , people with disabilities or from disadvantaged economic backgrounds;


### 12. recognises that the covid-19 crisis has had a severe negative impact on young people and has led to lost opportunities and diminished prospects; believes strongly that the 2023 budget should include a focus on youth , building on the momentum of the 2022 european year of youth; highlights the importance of erasmus+ , which should become more inclusive , offering greater opportunities to people from disadvantaged backgrounds; ### 12. recognises that the covid-19 crisis has had a severe negative impact on young people and has led to lost opportunities and diminished prospects; believes strongly that the 2023 budget should include a focus on youth , building on the momentum of the 2022 european year of youth; highlights the importance of erasmus+ to foster education , training and job opportunities across the union; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship; highlights that erasmus+ should become more inclusive , offering greater opportunities to people from disadvantaged backgrounds;


### 13. points also to the need to bolster the european solidarity corps (esc) , which helps young people gain practical experience in another member state thereby increasing their employability and life chances; recalls the importance of activities for young people under the european social fund plus , in particular with regard to training , and the rrf; ### 13. points also to the need to bolster the european solidarity corps (esc) , which helps young people gain practical experience in another member state thereby increasing their employability and life chances as well as their pro-eu sentiment;


### 14. recalls that the pandemic has severely impacted older people too; notes that erasmus+ offers opportunities for adults and seniors and calls on the commission to ensure that they benefit more from it; points to the need to ensure mobility and volunteering for seniors similar to what young people enjoy under the esc; ### 14. recalls that the pandemic has severely impacted older people too , once again exposing the lack of policy responses to the impact of demographic change in the eu , such as the lack of adequate and affordable housing , quality care facilities and sufficient care and support services; stresses that the budget should underline the importance of safeguarding and promoting the dignity of the older persons and their fundamental rights in the eu by introducing an “ageing-in-dignity” criteria; calls , furthermore , for sufficient funding to support investment in housing in order to tackle effectively the growing problems of a lack of affordable housing , poor housing conditions , housing exclusion and homelessness; notes that erasmus+ offers opportunities for adults and seniors and calls on the commission to ensure that they benefit more from it; points to the need to ensure mobility and volunteering for seniors similar to what young people enjoy under the esc;


### 15. highlights the need to secure adequate funding for the asylum , migration and integration fund , with a view to ensuring proper implementation of asylum policy and promoting legal migration and integration , in line with union values and international commitments; ### 15. highlights the need to secure adequate funding for the asylum , migration and integration fund , with a view to ensuring proper implementation of the common european asylum system , promoting integration , setting up a framework for legal migration as requested in the 2020/2255(inl) report of the european parliament adopted in plenary on november 25th 2021 , fighting trafficking in human beings and encouraging the dignified return of persons and voluntary returns , in line with union values and international commitments;


### 23. looks forward to the application of the revised climate tracking methodology to the 2023 draft budget in accordance with the interinstitutional agreement on budgetary discipline; expects the commission to adopt an effective , transparent and comprehensive methodology for biodiversity tracking as soon as possible , bearing in mind the target set for 2024; ### 23. looks forward to the application of the revised climate tracking methodology to the 2023 draft budget in accordance with the interinstitutional agreement on budgetary discipline; expects the commission to adopt an effective , transparent and comprehensive methodology for biodiversity tracking as soon as possible , bearing in mind the target set for 2024; calls on the commission to take in due consideration all relevant findings and recommendations in order to achieve full transparency and clarity of future spending and to establish a clearer link between climate and biodiversity expenditure and its actual impact , including by application of output and results indicators;


### 24. recalls that the commission must implement , no later than 1 january 2023 and for certain centrally managed programmes , a methodology to measure expenditure relevant to the promotion of gender equality as well as rights and equal opportunities for all; ### 24. calls for a mainstreaming of gender responsive budget to better align policies and activities that promote the equal participation of women in the labour market and to have comprehensive systems to monitor and measure gender budget allocations , women participation in the labour market , access to non-standards contracts , and employment and pay gaps; calls for the implementation of gender budgeting in the general budget 2023 by assigning budget allocations taking into account a gender-responsive evaluation of the previous budgetary period and ensuring equal participation in the budgetary process; recalls that the commission must implement , no later than 1 january 2023 and for certain centrally managed programmes , a methodology to measure expenditure relevant to the promotion of gender equality as well as rights and equal opportunities for all; recalls the importance of ambitious funding and other instruments that promote the support of anti-discrimination legislation and policies and the implementation thereof; requests in this regards increased funding for the daphne programme; underlines the important role played by the european institute for gender equality and the need to ensure adequate funding and staff for its tasks;


### 25. recalls the essential work carried out by decentralised agencies; considers that agencies must be properly staffed and adequately resourced so that they can perform their tasks; ### 25. recalls the essential work carried out by decentralised agencies; considers that agencies must be properly staffed and adequately resourced so that they can perform their tasks; reminds the commission of the necessity to ensure predictable resources for echa to make sure that the agency can fulfil its mandate and execute its future tasks optimally;


### 25. recalls the essential work carried out by decentralised agencies; considers that agencies must be properly staffed and adequately resourced so that they can perform their tasks; ### 25. recalls the essential work carried out by decentralised agencies; considers that agencies must be properly staffed and adequately resourced so that they can perform their tasks; insists , in particular , on a proper staffing and financing of the new european labour authority;


### 19. notes , from the annual activity report. that the decrease in the error rates in 2021 could be due , among other reasons , to the beneficiaries’ increased knowledge of the eligibility rules and the inherent learning curve , as well as to the results of the communication campaigns , targeted webinars and training , addressed in particular to newcomers and smes; ### 19. notes , from the annual activity report. that the decrease in the error rates in 2021 could be due , among other reasons , to the beneficiaries’ increased knowledge of the eligibility rules and the inherent learning curve , as well as to the results of the communication campaigns , targeted webinars and training , addressed in particular to newcomers and smes; stresses that the error rates should be treated with caution , as they may change subject to the availability of additional data from audit results.


### 3. welcomes the agency’s continued implementation of its 2020-2024 strategy that will enable it to fulfil its maritime surveillance , safety and security tasks while contributing efficiently to the union’s digital and environmental priorities; welcomes in particular the agency’s publication - with the european environment agency - of the first european maritime transport environmental report , collecting verified information on the environmental footprint of shipping activities; ### 3. welcomes the agency’s continued implementation of its 2020-2024 strategy that will enable it to fulfil its maritime surveillance , safety and security tasks while contributing efficiently to the union’s digital and environmental priorities; welcomes emsa’s efforts to contribute to the implementation of the european green agenda for maritime transport; welcomes in particular the agency’s publication - with the european environment agency - of the first european maritime transport environmental report , collecting verified information on the environmental footprint of shipping activities;


### (4) to implement those objectives , the european commission 2021 work programme46 announced a ‘fit for 55’ package to reduce ghg emissions by at least 55% by 2030 , and to achieve a climate-neutral european union by 2050. this package covers a range of policy areas including energy efficiency , renewable energy , land use , land change and forestry , energy taxation , effort sharing and emissions trading. ### (4) to implement those objectives , the european commission 2021 work programme46 announced a ‘fit for 55’ package to reduce ghg emissions by at least 55% by 2030 , and to achieve a climate-neutral european union by 2050. this package covers a range of policy areas including energy efficiency , renewable energy , transport , land use , land change and forestry , energy taxation , effort sharing and emissions trading.


### (10) the higher level of ambition requires a stronger promotion of cost-effective energy efficiency measures in all areas of the energy system and in all relevant sectors where activity affects energy demand , such as the transport , water and agriculture sectors. improving energy efficiency throughout the full energy chain , including energy generation , transmission , distribution and end-use , will benefit the environment , improve air quality and public health , reduce ghg emissions , improve energy security , cut energy costs for households and companies , help alleviate energy poverty , and lead to increased competitiveness , more jobs and increased economic activity throughout the economy , thus improving citizens' quality of life. that complies with the union commitments made in the framework of the energy union and global climate agenda established by the 2015 paris agreement. ### (10) the higher level of ambition requires a stronger promotion of cost-effective energy efficiency measures in all areas of the energy system and in all relevant sectors where activity affects energy demand , such as the transport , water and agriculture sectors. improving energy efficiency throughout the full energy chain , including energy generation , transmission , distribution and end-use , will benefit the environment , improve air quality and public health , reduce ghg emissions , improve energy security , cut energy costs for households and companies , help alleviate energy poverty and the associated inequalities , and lead to increased competitiveness , more jobs and increased economic activity throughout the economy , thus improving citizens' quality of life. that complies with the union commitments made in the framework of the energy union and global climate agenda established by the 2015 paris agreement.


### (11) this directive takes a step forward towards climate neutrality by 2050 , under which energy efficiency is to be treated as an energy source in its own right. the energy efficiency first principle is an overarching principle that should be taken into account across all sectors , going beyond the energy system , at all levels , including in the financial sector. energy efficiency solutions should be considered as the first option in policy , planning and investment decisions , when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas. while the energy efficiency first principle should be applied without prejudice to other legal obligations , objectives and principles , they should also not hamper its application or exempt from applying the principle. the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand-side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity. energy efficiency improvements need to be made whenever they are more cost-effective than equivalent supply-side solutions. that should help exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for the union , in particular for citizens and businesses. implementing energy efficiency improvement measures should also be a priority in alleviating energy poverty. ### (11) this directive takes a step forward towards climate neutrality by 2050 , under which energy efficiency is to be treated as an energy source in its own right. the energy efficiency first principle is an overarching principle that should be taken into account across all sectors , going beyond the energy system , at all levels , including in the financial sector. energy efficiency solutions should be considered as the first option in policy , planning and investment decisions , when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas. while the energy efficiency first principle should be applied without prejudice to other legal obligations , objectives and principles , they should also not hamper its application or exempt from applying the principle. the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand-side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity. energy efficiency improvements need to be made whenever they are more cost-effective than equivalent supply-side solutions. that should help exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for the union , in particular for citizens and businesses. implementing energy efficiency improvement measures should also be a priority in alleviating energy poverty and its gendered consequences.


### (11) this directive takes a step forward towards climate neutrality by 2050 , under which energy efficiency is to be treated as an energy source in its own right. the energy efficiency first principle is an overarching principle that should be taken into account across all sectors , going beyond the energy system , at all levels , including in the financial sector. energy efficiency solutions should be considered as the first option in policy , planning and investment decisions , when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas. while the energy efficiency first principle should be applied without prejudice to other legal obligations , objectives and principles , they should also not hamper its application or exempt from applying the principle. the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand-side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity. energy efficiency improvements need to be made whenever they are more cost-effective than equivalent supply-side solutions. that should help exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for the union , in particular for citizens and businesses. implementing energy efficiency improvement measures should also be a priority in alleviating energy poverty. ### (11) this directive takes a step forward towards climate neutrality by 2050 , under which energy efficiency is to be treated as an energy source in its own right. the energy efficiency first principle is an overarching principle that should be taken into account across all sectors , going beyond the energy system , at all levels , including in the financial sector. energy efficiency solutions should be considered as the first option in policy , planning and investment decisions , when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas. while the energy efficiency first principle should be applied without prejudice to other legal obligations , objectives and principles , they should also not hamper its application or exempt from applying the principle. to make the energy efficiency first principle fully operational and a strategic priority , the commission should take adequate measures to make regulation more efficient and effective , avoiding allocating funds that are prone to not being exploited due to bureaucratic and administrative barriers; the commission should eliminate conflicting instruments and prioritise narrowing the gap between the union ambition and the national objectives , which , as presented in the necps , were not ambitious enough. the commission should also focus on specific aspects of economic activities in order to meet the annual energy saving obligation , which the commission should increase from 1 ,5% to 2%. the energy efficiency first principle should be operational locally , regionally , nationally and at european level. the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand-side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity. energy efficiency improvements need to be made whenever they are more cost-effective than equivalent supply-side solutions , hence the commission should support the deployment of different technologies and solutions that allow for system integration and optimisation , such as hybrids and micro-cogeneration using renewable gas and electricity , solar thermal heating technologies as well as decentralised renewable energy production and thermal storage. that should help exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for the union , in particular for citizens and businesses. implementing energy efficiency improvement measures should also be a priority in alleviating energy poverty.


### (11) this directive takes a step forward towards climate neutrality by 2050 , under which energy efficiency is to be treated as an energy source in its own right. the energy efficiency first principle is an overarching principle that should be taken into account across all sectors , going beyond the energy system , at all levels , including in the financial sector. energy efficiency solutions should be considered as the first option in policy , planning and investment decisions , when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas. while the energy efficiency first principle should be applied without prejudice to other legal obligations , objectives and principles , they should also not hamper its application or exempt from applying the principle. the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand-side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity. energy efficiency improvements need to be made whenever they are more cost-effective than equivalent supply-side solutions. that should help exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for the union , in particular for citizens and businesses. implementing energy efficiency improvement measures should also be a priority in alleviating energy poverty. ### (11) this directive takes a step forward towards climate neutrality by 2050 , under which energy efficiency is to be treated as an energy source in its own right. the energy efficiency first principle is an overarching principle that should be taken into account across all sectors , going beyond the energy system , at all levels , including in the financial sector. energy efficiency solutions should be considered as the first option in policy , planning and investment decisions , when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas , providing that they lead to a reduction of ghg emissions per unit of final energy consumption. while the energy efficiency first principle should be applied without prejudice to other legal obligations , objectives and principles , they should also not hamper its application or exempt from applying the principle. the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand-side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity. energy efficiency improvements need to be made whenever they are more cost-effective than equivalent supply-side solutions. that should help exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for the union , in particular for citizens and businesses. implementing energy efficiency improvement measures should also be a priority in alleviating energy poverty.


### (11) this directive takes a step forward towards climate neutrality by 2050 , under which energy efficiency is to be treated as an energy source in its own right. the energy efficiency first principle is an overarching principle that should be taken into account across all sectors , going beyond the energy system , at all levels , including in the financial sector. energy efficiency solutions should be considered as the first option in policy , planning and investment decisions , when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas. while the energy efficiency first principle should be applied without prejudice to other legal obligations , objectives and principles , they should also not hamper its application or exempt from applying the principle. the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand-side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity. energy efficiency improvements need to be made whenever they are more cost-effective than equivalent supply-side solutions. that should help exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for the union , in particular for citizens and businesses. implementing energy efficiency improvement measures should also be a priority in alleviating energy poverty. ### (11) this directive takes a step forward towards climate neutrality by 2050. the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand-side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity. energy efficiency improvements need to be made whenever they are more cost-effective than equivalent supply-side solutions. that should help exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for the union , in particular for citizens and businesses. implementing energy efficiency improvement measures should also be a priority in alleviating energy poverty.


### (12) energy efficiency should be recognised as a crucial element and a priority consideration in future investment decisions on the union's energy infrastructure. the energy efficiency first principle should be applied taking primarily the system efficiency approach and societal perspective into consideration. consequently , it should help increase the efficiency of individual end-use sectors and of the whole energy system. application of the principle should also support investments in energy-efficient solutions contributing to environmental objectives listed in regulation (eu) 2020/852 of the european parliament and of the council50 . ### (12) energy efficiency should be recognised as a crucial element and a priority consideration in future investment decisions on the union's energy infrastructure. the energy efficiency first principle should be applied taking primarily the system efficiency approach and an inclusive societal perspective into consideration , ensuring that inequalities are addressed. consequently , it should help increase the efficiency of individual end-use sectors and of the whole energy system. application of the principle should also support investments in energy-efficient solutions contributing to environmental objectives listed in regulation (eu) 2020/852 of the european parliament and of the council50 .


### (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 empower and protect vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty , such as women in all their diversity , persons with disabilities , older persons , lgbtiq+ people , children , migrants , and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds , 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.


### (53) as an alternative to requiring obligated parties to achieve the amount of cumulative end-use energy savings required under article 8(1) of this directive , it should be possible for member states , in their obligation schemes , to permit or require obligated parties to contribute to an energy efficiency national fund , which could be used to implement policy measures as a priority among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing . ### (53) as an alternative to requiring obligated parties to achieve the amount of cumulative end-use energy savings required under article 8(1) of this directive , it should be possible for member states , in their obligation schemes , to permit or require obligated parties to contribute to an energy efficiency national fund , which could be used to implement policy measures as a priority among vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and people living in social housing. measures using energy efficiency national funds should be designed with principles of inclusivity and accessibility for all , including women , persons with disabilities , older persons , lgbtiq+ people , migrants , and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds.


### (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. current building renovation rates are insufficient and buildings occupied by citizens on low incomes who are 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 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 , in particular due to the gender pay and pension gaps , 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. current building renovation rates are insufficient and buildings occupied by citizens on low incomes who are 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.


### (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 , in particular low-income households , women in all their diversity , persons with disabilities , older persons , lgbtiq+ people , children , migrants , and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds , 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. inclusivity and accessibility principles should be incorporated in the design of such measures.


### (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. 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 women , people with disabilities , older people , lgbtiq+ people , migrants , persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds , and 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 , people affected by energy poverty and those living in social housing and in the outermost regions. 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.


### (98) national funding schemes should be complemented by suitable schemes of better information , technical and administrative assistance , easier access to finance that will enable the best use of the available funds especially by people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. ### (98) national funding schemes should be complemented by suitable schemes of better information , technical and administrative assistance , and easier access to finance designed with principles of inclusivity and accessibility , that will enable the best use of the available funds especially by people affected by energy poverty , in particular women , persons with disabilities , older persons , lgbtiq+ people , migrants , and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing.


### (98) national funding schemes should be complemented by suitable schemes of better information , technical and administrative assistance , easier access to finance that will enable the best use of the available funds especially by people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. ### (98) national funding schemes should be complemented by suitable schemes of better information , technical and administrative assistance , easier access to finance that will enable the best use of the available funds especially by people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing and in the outermost 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 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.


### 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 national equality bodies , experts , relevant 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 , lgbtiq+ people , children , migrants and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds.


### 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. the policy design , reach out and engagement strategies for the groups exposed to a higher risk of energy poverty shall be based on the income , gender , demographics , health conditions , or the belonging to a minority community relevant to the local conditions such as persons with a minority racial or ethnic background.


### 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 , particularly people experiencing intersectional discrimination such as women in all their diversity , persons with disabilities , older persons , lgbtiq+ people , children , migrants , and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds , 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.


### 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 , in particular those facing intersecting forms of discrimination 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.


### 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 , including people experiencing intersecting forms of discrimination , 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 , such as women , or groups 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.


### 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. ### 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 , including those actions specifically directed to women and people experiencing intersecting forms of discrimination , and shall require aggregated statistical information on their final customers (identifying changes in energy savings to previously submitted information) , with where possible a breakdown of customers by gender , 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 and targeted information and advice to final consumers , including vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty with special attention to women , and , where applicable , people living in social housing on energy efficiency.


### 4. member states shall ensure that final customers , final users , vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing , have access to simple , fair , transparent , independent , effective and efficient out-of-court mechanisms for the settlement of disputes concerning rights and obligations established under this directive , through an independent mechanism such as an energy ombudsperson or a consumer body , or through a regulatory authority. where the final customer is a consumer as defined in article 4(1)(a) of directive 2013/11/eu of the european parliament and of the council100 , such out-of-court dispute settlement mechanisms shall comply with the requirements set out therein. ### 4. member states shall ensure that final customers , final users , vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty particularly people experiencing intersectional discrimination such as women in all their diversity , persons with disabilities , older persons , lgbtiq+ people , migrants , and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds and , where applicable , people living in social housing , have access to simple , fair , transparent , independent , effective and efficient out-of-court mechanisms for the settlement of disputes concerning rights and obligations established under this directive , through an independent mechanism such as an energy ombudsperson or a consumer body , or through a regulatory authority. where the final customer is a consumer as defined in article 4(1)(a) of directive 2013/11/eu of the european parliament and of the council100 , such out-of-court dispute settlement mechanisms shall comply with the requirements set out therein.


### 1. member states shall take appropriate measures to empower and protect people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. ### 1. member states shall take appropriate measures to empower and protect people affected by energy poverty , in particular people experiencing intersectional forms of discrimination such as women in all their diversity , persons with disabilities , lgbtiq+ people , older persons , migrants , and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing.


### 1. member states shall take appropriate measures to empower and protect people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing. ### 1. member states shall develop a robust long-term strategy that would grant appropriate technical and financial assistance to consumers , including solutions such as less emitting heating or cooling systems , and create regional task forces that would monitor , inform , empower and protect people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing , to alleviate energy poverty.


### 2. member states shall implement energy efficiency improvement measures and related consumer protection or information measures , in particular those set out in article 21 and article 8(3) , as a priority among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing to alleviate energy poverty. ### 2. member states shall implement energy efficiency improvement measures and related consumer protection or information measures , in particular those set out in article 21 and article 8(3) , as a priority among people affected by energy poverty , vulnerable customers and , where applicable , people living in social housing to alleviate energy poverty. member states shall introduce monitoring and evaluation instruments to ensure that people at risk of energy poverty are supported by energy efficiency measures.


### 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 , taking also into consideration the gender patterns in energy consumption;


### b) to develop or improve relevant indicators and data sets , pertinent to the issue of energy poverty , that should be used and reported upon; ### b) to develop or improve relevant indicators and data sets , pertinent to the issue of energy poverty , that should be used and reported upon. more reliable and complete gender-disaggregated data should also be a priority for the network.


### c) to set up methods and measures to ensure affordability , the promotion of housing cost neutrality , or ways to ensure that public funding invested in energy efficiency improvement measures benefit both , owners and tenants , of buildings and building units , in particular regarding vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty , and , where applicable , people living in social housing; ### c) to set up methods and measures to ensure affordability , the promotion of housing cost neutrality , or ways to ensure that public funding invested in energy efficiency improvement measures benefit both , owners and tenants , of buildings and building units , in particular regarding vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty , and , where applicable , people living in social housing , with a gender-equality perspective;


### 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 , including civil society organisation and those experiencing intersecting forms of discrimination such as women , older persons , lgbtiq+ people , migrants , and persons from diverse social , racial or ethnic backgrounds , 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 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 and relevant stakeholders 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 of competences for energy efficiency professions that corresponds to the market needs. particular attention shall be paid to increasing the participation of women in these professions. 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.


### 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 , setting up specific and targeted funding to protect and empower vulnerable customers , people affected by energy poverty and , where applicable , people living in social housing including by integrating a gender equality and diversity perspective so that no one is left behind .


### 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. member states shall adopt measures to facilitate the implementation of on-bill and on-tax financing schemes. to do so , member states shall ensure that national legislation on energy and its taxation , and the financial regulatory frameworks governing energy utilities , enable the design and implementation of consumer-friendly on-bills and on-tax 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 , prioritising the implementation of operational de-risking tools like loan-loss reserves and guarantee funds.


### 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 operational data on energy consumption and (for electricity) load profiles and water consumption;


### 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 , the institutions of the european union and it bodies , as well as regional and local authorities , shall ensure that energy efficiency solutions are taken into account in the planning , policy and investment decisions related to the following sectors:


### energy systems , and ### energy systems while taking into account the impact on security of supply and affordability , and


### non-energy sectors , where those sectors have an impact on energy consumption and energy efficiency. ### non-energy sectors , where those sectors have an impact on energy consumption , security of supply , affordability and energy efficiency.


### report to the commission , as part of the integrated national energy and climate progress reports in accordance with article 17 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 on how the principle was taken into account in the national and regional planning , policy and major investment decisions related to the national and regional energy systems. ### report to the commission , as part of the integrated national energy and climate progress reports in accordance with article 17 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 on how the principle was taken into account in the national and regional planning , policy and investment decisions related to the national and regional energy systems.


### 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 a reduction of energy consumption of at least 45 % in 2030 compared to the projections of the 2007 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 binding national energy efficiency targets for final and primary energy consumption to meet , collectively , the binding union target set in paragraph 1. when doing so , member states shall use the formula defined in annex i of this directive and use its result. 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. by 2027 , the indicative trajectory shall reach a reference point of at least 65 % of the total decrease in energy consumption between that member state's binding 2020 national target and its contribution to the 2030 target.


### other national circumstances affecting energy consumption , in particular: ### deleted


### 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 , member states that are above their indicative trajectories referred to in paragraph 2 of this article shall ensure that additional measures are implemented within two years 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. 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 as well as at least 3% of the total floor area of heated and/or cooled privately owned buildings providing structures that support the quality of life are subject to deep renovations 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. ### 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 meet at least the highest level of energy performance for new buildings in accordance with [recast of directive 2010/31/eu as proposed by com(2021) 802].


### 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 meet at least the highest level of energy performance for new buildings in accordance with [recast of directive 2010/31/eu as proposed by com(2021) 802]. when concluding a new contract for occupying a building they do not own , public bodies shall rent only buildings that meet at least the highest level of energy performance for new buildings in accordance with [recast of directive 2010/31/eu as proposed by com(2021) 802].


### 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 cost-optimal levels in accordance with article 7 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.


### 2. in exceptional cases , member states may count towards the annual renovation rate of buildings new buildings owned as replacements for specific public bodies’ buildings demolished in any of the two previous years. such exceptions shall only apply where they would be more cost effective and sustainable in terms of the energy and lifecycle co2 emissions achieved compared to the renovations of such buildings. the general criteria , methodologies and procedures to identify such exceptional cases shall be clearly set out and published by each member state. ### 2. in exceptional cases , member states may count towards the annual renovation rate of buildings new buildings owned as replacements for specific public bodies’ buildings demolished in any of the two previous years. such exceptions shall only apply where they would be more cost effective and sustainable in terms of the energy and lifecycle co2 emissions achieved compared to the renovations of such buildings. the commission shall define general criteria , methodologies and procedures to identify such exceptional cases in a dedicated guidance document.


### new savings each year from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 of 1 ,5 % of annual energy sales to final customers by volume , averaged over the most recent three-year period prior to 1 january 2013. sales of energy , by volume , used in transport may be excluded , in whole or in part , from that calculation; ### new savings each year from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 of 1 ,5 % of annual energy sales to final customers by volume , averaged over the most recent three-year period prior to 1 january 2013. sales of energy , by volume , used in transport shall not be excluded , in whole or in part , from that calculation;


### 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 2024 to 31 december 2030 of 2 % of annual final energy consumption , averaged over the three-year period prior to 1 january 2020.


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


### 2. member states shall achieve the amount of energy savings required under paragraph 1 of this article either by establishing an energy efficiency obligation scheme referred to in article 9 or by adopting alternative policy measures referred to in article 10. member states may combine an energy efficiency obligation scheme with alternative policy measures. member states shall ensure that energy savings resulting from policy measures referred to in articles 9 and 10 and article 28(11) are calculated in accordance with annex v. ### 2. member states shall achieve the amount of energy savings required under paragraph 1 of this article either by establishing an energy efficiency obligation scheme referred to in article 9 or by adopting alternative policy measures referred to in article 10. member states may combine an energy efficiency obligation scheme with alternative policy measures. member states shall ensure that energy savings resulting from policy measures referred to in articles 9 and 10 and article 28(11) are calculated in a common methodology accordance with annex v.


### 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 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 they are not directly engaged in the activity audited and 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.


### 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 of this article , member states shall require , by 15 march 2024 and every year thereafter , owners and operators of each data centre in their territory with a significant energy consumption to make publicly available the information set out in point 2 of annex vi , which member states shall subsequently report to the commission. the commission shall adopt guidelines on monitoring and publishing the energy performance of data centres in accordance with point 2 of annex vi by no later than 15 march 2024. the commission shall provide harmonised definitions for each reporting indicator , a uniform measurement methodology for each , and provide guidance on uniform reporting and publishing requirements.


### 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 an energy consumption of more than 100 kw of rated energy input level 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.


### (7) to achieve the increased climate ambition , the impact assessment accompanying the climate target plan has shown that energy efficiency improvements will need to be significantly raised from the current level of ambition of 32 ,5%. ### (7) to achieve the increased climate ambition , the impact assessment accompanying the climate target plan has shown that energy efficiency improvements will need to be significantly raised from the current level of ambition of 32 ,5%. as there were no binding targets at member states level in 2020 and member states established their contributions only by using the formula provided in this directive , it is necessary to underline that the targets set in their national plans might have been met only because of the decreasing demand imposed by the covid-19 pandemic. as a scientifical study1a shows , the impact of the covid-pandemic will continue to contribute to the reduction of energy demand through to 2050 by 8% , resulting in energy demand in 2050 at almost exactly the level in was in 2018; yet , an 8% drop in energy use is not enough to progress towards the paris agreement ambitions nor the european green deal objectives and to reach the 1.5-degree target would mean to repeat the decline experienced in 2020 every year from now on.


### (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 investment decisions 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.


### (21) it is projected that the 32 ,5% union´s energy efficiency target for 2030 and the other policy instruments of the existing framework would lead to a reduction in ghg emission of about 45% by 2030.59 for an increased climate ambition of a 55% decrease of ghg emissions by 2030 , the impact assessment of the 2030 climate target plan assessed what level of efforts would be needed in the different policy areas. it concluded that , in relation to the baseline , achieving the ghg emissions target in a cost-optimal way meant that final and primary energy consumption are to decreased by at least 36-37% and 39-41% respectively. ### (21) it is projected that the 32 ,5% union´s energy efficiency target for 2030 and the other policy instruments of the existing framework would lead to a reduction in ghg emission of about 45% by 2030.59 for an increased climate ambition of a 55% decrease of ghg emissions by 2030 , the impact assessment of the 2030 climate target plan assessed what level of efforts would be needed in the different policy areas. it concluded that , in relation to the baseline , achieving the ghg emissions target in a cost-optimal way meant that final and primary energy consumption are to decrease by at least 36-37% and 39-41% respectively. to address those efforts more effectively and realistically cutting the energy consumption levels , the need for innovative energy solutions to reduce ghg , such as the development of digital technologies and the recognition of the central role of power feeding and data centres , is vital; fast-tracking progress in this sector should also be encouraged through the creation of a monitoring plan , as high innovative capabilities are a key driver to reducing ghg globally.


### (22) the union’s energy efficiency target was initially set and calculated using the 2007 reference scenario projections for 2030 as a baseline. the change in the eurostat energy balance calculation methodology and improvements in subsequent modelling projections call for a change of the baseline. thus , using the same approach to define the target , that is to say comparing it to the future baseline projections , the ambition of the union’s 2030 energy efficiency target is set compared to the 2020 reference scenario projections for 2030 reflecting national contributions from the necps. with that updated baseline , the union will need to further increase its energy efficiency ambition by at least 9% in 2030 compared to the level of efforts under the 2020 reference scenario. the new way of expressing the level of ambition for the union’s targets does not affect the actual level of efforts needed and corresponds to a reduction of 36% for final and 39% for primary energy consumption respectively when compared to the 2007 reference scenario projections for 2030. ### (22) this directive sets the increased union’s energy efficiency ambition at least 45% in 2030 compared to the 2007 reference scenario.


### (22) the union’s energy efficiency target was initially set and calculated using the 2007 reference scenario projections for 2030 as a baseline. the change in the eurostat energy balance calculation methodology and improvements in subsequent modelling projections call for a change of the baseline. thus , using the same approach to define the target , that is to say comparing it to the future baseline projections , the ambition of the union’s 2030 energy efficiency target is set compared to the 2020 reference scenario projections for 2030 reflecting national contributions from the necps. with that updated baseline , the union will need to further increase its energy efficiency ambition by at least 9% in 2030 compared to the level of efforts under the 2020 reference scenario. the new way of expressing the level of ambition for the union’s targets does not affect the actual level of efforts needed and corresponds to a reduction of 36% for final and 39% for primary energy consumption respectively when compared to the 2007 reference scenario projections for 2030. ### (22) the union’s energy efficiency target was initially set and calculated using the 2007 reference scenario projections for 2030 as a baseline. the change in the eurostat energy balance calculation methodology and improvements in subsequent modelling projections call for a change of the baseline. thus , using the same approach to define the target , that is to say comparing it to the future baseline projections , the ambition of the union’s 2030 energy efficiency target is set compared to the 2020 reference scenario projections for 2030 reflecting national contributions from the necps. with that updated baseline , the union will need to further increase its energy efficiency ambition by at least 20% in 2030 compared to the level of efforts under the 2020 reference scenario. the new way of expressing the level of ambition for the union’s targets does not affect the actual level of efforts needed and corresponds to a reduction of 44% for final and 46% for primary energy consumption respectively when compared to the 2007 reference scenario projections for 2030.


### (24) the need for the union to improve its energy efficiency should be expressed in primary and final energy consumption , to be achieved in 2030 , indicating additional level of efforts required when compared to the measures in place or planned measures in the national energy and climate plans. the 2020 reference scenario projects 864 mtoe of final energy consumption and 1124 mtoe of primary energy consumption to be reached in 2030 (excluding ambient heat and including international aviation). an additional reduction of 9% results in 787 mtoe and 1023 mtoe in 2030 respectively. compared to 2005 levels , it means that final energy consumption in the union should be reduced by some 23% and primary energy consumption should be reduced by some 32%. there are no binding targets at member state level in the 2020 and 2030 perspective , and member states should establish their contributions to the achievement of the union’s energy efficiency target taking into account the formula provided in this directive. member states should be free to set their national objectives based either on primary or final energy consumption or primary or final energy savings , or on energy intensity. this directive amends the way how member states should express their national contributions to the union´s target. member states’ contributions to the union’s target should be expressed in final and primary energy consumption to ensure consistency and monitoring of progress. a regular evaluation of progress towards the achievement of the union's 2030 targets is necessary and is provided for in regulation (eu) 2018/1999. ### (24) the need for the union to improve its energy efficiency should be expressed in primary and final energy consumption , to be achieved in 2030 , indicating additional level of efforts required when compared to the measures in place or planned measures in the national energy and climate plans. the 2020 reference scenario projects 864 mtoe of final energy consumption and 1124 mtoe of primary energy consumption to be reached in 2030 (excluding ambient heat and including international aviation). an additional reduction of 9% results in 787 mtoe and 1023 mtoe in 2030 respectively. member states should establish their binding targets to the achievement of the union’s energy efficiency target according to the formula provided in this directive. this directive amends the way how member states should express their targets to the achievement of the union´s target. member states’ targets to the union’s target should be expressed in final and primary energy consumption to ensure consistency and monitoring of progress. a regular evaluation of progress towards the achievement of the union's 2030 targets is necessary and is provided for in regulation (eu) 2018/1999.