It is indeed crucial that Research and Innovation investments be coupled with non-technological solutions involving both offer and demand of the type funded within the framework of the IEE Programme. Such projects facilitate the implementation of the EU’s energy efficiency policy, prepare the field for investment, support the bolstering of excellence of different players, including local authorities and favour the acceptance of those innovations by the general public. Their pertinence, efficiency and leverage effect for the delivery of the EU’s energy and climate goals have yet again been vindicated by recent independent surveys. Without a programme such as this, the Covenant of Mayors would not have seen the light of day and the same goes for innovative funding programmes such as ELENA.
Consequently, Energy Cities requires without delay:
- that a clear and separate budget heading be dedicated to non-technological solutions in the Horizon 2020 programme, within the spirit and furtherance of the IEE programme and that it be managed by DG ENER,
- that the budget allocated to these non-technological solutions reaches at least €1bn which would be a significant leap in respect of the IEE programme (appropriation of €730m for the 2007-2013 period).
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