The Energy Efficiency First (EE1st) Principle is at the heart of the EU’s climate strategy, yet its successful implementation hinges on seamless coordination across all administrative tiers—from the EU level down to local municipalities. The LIFE Regio1st project’s new report Guidelines on EE1st and Multilevel Governance implementation in regional planning, delivers a practical, step-by-step framework to help regions design and establish the most suitable Multilevel Governance (MLG) model for their specific context.
The report shows that the biggest barrier to effective EE1st implementation is governance fragmentation. Success relies on aligning objectives and resources across national, regional, and local levels.
The guidelines offer concrete steps to ensure these three crucial preconditions for success are met:
- Alignment of Regulatory Frameworks: Ensuring policies and regulations are consistent from the EU to the local level to avoid contradictions and streamline action.
- Adequate Financial Resources: Providing access to necessary EU funds and leveraging innovative financing mechanisms to support regional and local EE measures.
- Technical Capacity Building: Implementing knowledge-sharing platforms, training programs, and ensuring robust data availability so all actors are equipped to contribute effectively to the energy transition.
