According to a study performed by research and consulting firm Ecofys for Eurima, the European insulation manufacturers association, better insulation in buildings could save Europe's newest members billions every year while reducing their oil dependency.  

Although energy use in buildings is the same throughout Europe at 40% of the total energy consumed (industry accounts for 28% and transport 32%), Eurima says the savings potential in the EU-10 is greatest as energy used per square meter there is 25% higher, "due in large part to lower levels of thermal insulation".  

Greater savings would also cushion the poor from rising fuel heating prices while dramatically cutting CO2 emissions, thereby helping them meet their Kyoto CO2 reduction targets, Eurima argues.

"Governments were once willing and able to subsidise energy costs in the new member states. However, this is no longer possible or desirable, particularly as energy prices sky rocket," says Horst Biedermann, Director General of Eurima.  

Eurima's contribution will feed into the EU discussion on energy efficiency launched by the Commission in a Green Paper published in June.

To download: 

Cost-Effective Climate Protection in the Building Stock of the New EU Member, Leaflet with keypoints