Solar Heat Europe, alongside eight other trade associations and civil society organisations within the Clean Heat Coalition, has signed an open letter urging stronger political action to boost the EU’s clean heat sector.
The Clean Heat Coalition advocates for affordable, accessible, and climate-friendly heating solutions for households across Europe. The letter emphasises that clean heat is a fundamental right for all Europeans and calls for decisive policy measures to drive this transition.
The open letter outlines essential steps to position Europe as a global leader in clean heat:
- Fast-track Europe’s competitiveness in clean heat
- Unleash a demand shock for clean heat solutions
- Enshrine air quality at the heart of Europe’s net zero economy
Securing Europe’s clean heat transition is critical for both economic and environmental sustainability. The heating sector accounts for over half of industrial and residential energy consumption, making it imperative to move away from fossil fuels and toward energy-efficient solutions.
Beyond climate goals, the transition to clean heat is also a public health priority. According to the Joint Research Centre (JRC), 73% of particulate matter pollution in the EU originates from the heating and cooling sector. Tackling this issue is essential for improving air quality and public well-being.
In the words of Solar Heat Europe’s Managing Director, Valérie Séjourné:
“Solar thermal is a key renewable, homegrown part of Europe’s heating and cooling mix. 90% of Europe’s current solar thermal needs is domestically produced, and our members are ready to meet a growing demand. To maintain this position of strength, targeted support is needed!”
Now is the time for the EU to lead the charge toward a cleaner, healthier, and more competitive heat sector.
Read the letter here.