#Heatishalf of our energy needs…. Yet, it is still not clearly identified as a priority in the recently published 2025 Work Programme from the European Commission (see first comment).

Whilst we welcome the announcements for the upcoming Clean Industrial Deal, Affordable Energy Action Plan, Industry Decarbonisation Accelerator Plan and the phase out of Russian gas imports, announced in the Commission Work Programme, Solar Heat Europe and its members are concerned about the European Commission’s lack of clarity regarding a heating and cooling strategy.
With only this ‘light’ reference ie, “explore methods to decarbonise Europe’s heating and cooling systems and integrate citizens and communities as key participants in the energy transition”, we indeed believe that more should be done for this key energy need.

The last heating and cooling strategy dates back to 2016, it is then urgent that a new strategy, in line with economic, geopolitical and climate challenges, is developed asap, for the benefit of both European industries and households across the continent.

The deployment of the latest technologies for industrial and residential heating is necessary to restore the competitiveness of the European economy. #Solarthermal energy:
·     is manufactured in the European Union;
. is a no-regret solution which reduces any other energy consumption
·     makes European industry independent by decoupling its costs from geopolitical and economic developments;
. provides an affordable and predictable source of heat.

#Solarheat must be supported by a proper EU heating and cooling strategy, so as ultimately to have a strong “Made in Europe” solar industry, boosting the continent’s competitiveness.