Energy efficiency strategies to improve productivity and competitiveness of the EU countries

Abstract

Energy harmonization of the electricity market, infrastructure and decision-making in energy policy are a complex problem given the great technical contrasts, geopolitical diversity and different economic situations in the EU countries. Although the European authorities are taking steps, it will take a long time before an interconnected and harmonized electricity market in Europe is reached. The major challenges to face in the electricity sector in the EU are issues such as: the development of energy storage, as well as the intelligent network management, or demand-side participation by end-users in real time. The persistent dependence of fossil fuels on the electric mix remains a reality that dampens CO2 emissions and limits the use of clean technologies. At the same time, it is necessary to obtain a reliable data structure to obtain the reliable information with which to make decisions. Moreover, to analyze the information conecting different dimensions such as: energy sustainability, protection of the atmosphere, water and territory management. The present paper analyzes the appropriate variables for energy policy decision making, while alizing the behavior of several EU countries.