10 October 2012: The EU’s Committee of the Regions (CoR) has expressed support for the European Commission’s plans to reduce energy consumption and commit to shifting towards more sustainable energy resources.

At the same time, the CoR has called for greater action to support local and regional authorities so that these objectives can be achieved. The European Commission’s Energy Roadmap 2050 seeks to achieve the EU’s target of reducing greenhouse emissions to 80-95% below 1990 levels by 2050 while protecting energy supply and maintaining competitiveness. According to Ugo Cappellacci, President of the Region of Sardinia and rapporteur of the Energy Roadmap 2050 Opinion, more adequate funding and support is needed to support local and regional authorities in delivering the goals set forth in the Roadmap.

According to the opinion, simplification and improved access to funding from the European Investment Bank is requested, with priority given to projects on energy efficiency and renewable energy. It also suggests the adoption of additional measures such as banning national subsidies for fossil fuels. Finally, the CoR expressed concern at the lack of reference to the energy efficiency of buildings in the Roadmap. [Europa News]