The European Commission presented on February 16 the first EU initiative addressing the energy used for heating and cooling in buildings and industry. The Strategy is a key action of the Energy Union Framework Strategy that will contribute to improving EU's energy security by making the sector smarter, more efficient and sustainable. The buildings' and industries' heating and cooling sector currently account for 50% of the EU's annual energy consumption.

The strategy includes plans to boost the energy efficiency of buildings, improve linkages between electricity systems and district heating systems, and encourage reuse of waste heat and cold generated by industry.

Article source: http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-16-311_en.htm

More information can be found at the relevant press-release and accompanying memo.