After pushing hard for the so-called green transition and deciding to phase out oil and gas deliveries from Russia, the EU Commission is now launching its next move to save the planet and handle the situation it has placed itself in. Citing the need to reduce the use of fossil fuels—while energy prices soar in the wake of the war in Iran—among other things, they will encourage remote work.

According to documents reviewed by the Financial Times, the Commission will this week present a series of measures to member states that aim to cut demand, improve energy efficiency, and support the transition to clean energy. The measures are claimed to offer “immediate relief” from high energy prices.

According to the same package, Brussels believes businesses should be encouraged to ensure at least one mandatory remote work day where possible. Other recommendations include subsidizing public transport and lowering VAT on heat pumps, boilers, and solar panels.

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Further measures include “ambitious” but as yet undisclosed targets for electrification. Other actions, such as addressing the shortage of jet fuel, remain to be developed according to the document.

To achieve electrification goals, the EU intends to help member states develop “social leasing systems for clean and efficient technology.” At the same time, it is emphasized that the measures are recommendations rather than instructions.

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“If we are facing an energy shortage, it is our responsibility to ensure citizens know what they can do to reduce usage. We are not micromanaging people’s lives,” commented an EU official.

Legislation Proposals

While the proposals are not binding, the Commission will at the same time present two legislative proposals aimed at reducing costs. This includes laws to adjust the rules of the electricity market to lower the costs of electricity transmission, and attempts to amend a directive to ensure electricity is taxed at lower levels than fossil fuels.

In 2022, the union issued similar goals, then to encourage businesses and consumers to lower thermostats by one degree.

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