Our homes and offices must cut energy consumption by 20% says Europe. But as the crisis hits taxpayers’ pockets, will the politicians pay for the measures needed? Could tax incentives be the answer?

Building A Greener Europe

In ten years time all Europe’s buildings,   housing as well as offices,

must cut their   energy consumption by 20%.

To achieve this, the Parliament   has just voted a new law.

like insulating old buildings, solar energy   and more efficient house appliances.

All Member States need to consider   adopting national annual targets

for improving a certain percentage   of their existing buildings.

and citizens can't pay for   the changes by themselves,

particularly given   the economic crisis.

All the Member States are allowed   to use a four percent quota

from their national European   regional development regional funds

for the energy efficiency of   the housing sector

as well as for the building   of social housing.

Tax incentives could be used   by Member States.

From 2020, new buildings must meet   tougher energy savings standards.

In addition to the environmental benefits,   this law should also create jobs

in both the construction   and research sectors.

We want public and private investment   to create jobs particularly in SMEs.

These new European laws could be   applied from 2012

if Member States   agree to the text approved by MEPs.