Multiannual programme for actions in the field of energy 2003-2006
Programme objectives:
Security of supply - if no measures are taken the Union's dependency on external supply of energy will reach 70% before 2030
The fight agains climate change - CO2 is the main gas responsible for climate change. The Union committed itself to reduce its emissions under the Kyoto Agreement. Yet, the energy sector, notably through energy use in transport, is increasing its CO2 emissions
Financing
Financing is granted for up to 50% of total costs
Support is granted to 3 groups of activities:
SAVE - Rational use of energy and demand management
Forward studies, strategic studies, market studies, development of standards and labelling and certification systems, preparatory actions to establish "voluntary agreements" with industry
Creation or enlargement of structures and instruments to encourage rational use of energy and demand management (e.g. local and regional planning and management, creation of financial products and adequate market instruments
To facilitate the market penetration of energy-efficient equipment and the transition from the demonstration to the marketing of better technologies, notably in industry and building
Development of information, education and training structures. Utilisation of results, promotion and dissemination of know- how and best practices in this specific field, coordination with other initiatives (at international, Community, national, regional and local levels)
ALTENER - New and renewable sources of energy
Forward studies, strategic studies, market studies, development of standards and certification systems, comparative studies (e. g. environmental impact, cost development)
Creation or enlargement of structures and instruments for the development of new and renewable energy sources (e. g. local and regional energy planning and management, creation of financial products and adequate market instruments)
To facilitate the market penetration of new and renewable energy sources and the transition from the demonstration to the marketing of the best technologies
Development of information, education and training structures. Utilisation of results, promotion and dissemination of know- how and best practices in this specific field, coordination with other initiatives (at international, Community, national, regional and local levels)
STEER - Energy in transport
Forward studies, strategic studies, market studies, development of standards and certification systems, comparative studies (e. g. environmental impact), preparatory actions to establish "voluntary undertakings" with industry
Creation or enlargement of structures and instruments to encourage more energy- efficient and less- polluting transport systems and to modify behaviour regarding mobility (local and urban planning and management, links with the trans-European networks, creation of financial products and market instruments)
To facilitate the creation of new type infrastructures (aimed at intermodality and modal integration), the market penetration of alternative vehicles, and to facilitate the transition from the demonstration to the marketing of the best technologies to facilitate the market penetration of new and renewable energy technologies and energy- efficient equipment and the transition from the demonstration to the marketing of the best technologies.
Development of information, education and training structures. Utilisation of results, promotion and dissemination of know- how and best practices aimed at energy diversification in transport and cleaner, efficient transport systems and modes, coordination with international, Community, national, regional and local initiatives
Key Actions
The programme will be implemented mainly by means of "key actions" in the various fields.
These will be defined when laying down the work programme and adapted, if necessary, during the course of the programme.
Key actions covering several specific fields may also be considered.
For example, specific key actions for the outermost regions as defined in Article 299(2) of the Treaty, or on topics such as:
"Economic buildings" - integrated projects concerning public and residential buildings with low energy consumption in medium-sized towns.
"Energy and urban safety" - integrated projects concerning urban lighting, furniture and equipment for transport
"Water and energy" - integrated projects concerning water and energy supply in coastal and tourist areas (desalinisation, hotels and tourist facilities)
"Communities towards 100% renewable energy sources" - integrated projects in the EU and developing countries.
"Green transport" - integrated projects to find solutions in the field of urban transport.
"Learning about sustainable energy" - integrated projects in education.
"Analysis and evaluation of the impact of energy production and use on the environment, in particular in terms of climate change".
"Promotion of coordinated analyses of energy policies and markets at Community level and of measures to implement the Community legislation in these areas".
