Policy Recommendations

POWER policy experts and the Regional Correspondents analysed project results and worked together to identify and formulate macro policy recommendations for each theme. Clearly the themes are fundamentally interrelated, and a holistic approach needs to be taken. For each of the themes, micro-level and technical recommendations can be found in the evidence produced by the subprojects.

This section of the report summarises, by theme, some of the recommended actions and policy changes that would make a difference to a region’s ability to achieve a low carbon economy. As the themes are so closely linked, some of the recommendations appear in more than one section. Some of the recommendations are for local and regional authorities whilst others are more relevant to National or EU level policy makers. The important thing is to recognise the multiplicity of actors involved and the different levels at which policy changes are necessary.

Energy Efficiency

Reducing the amount of energy we use is the cornerstone of a sustainable future. A move towards energy efficiency can create employment, for instance in sustainable construction and retro-fitting, and improve living conditions and quality of life for citizens in all regions.

Use procurement measures to encourage low carbon behaviour, to reduce the distance travelled and energy used by goods and services
Use public authorities as exemplars – working with multi-level stakeholders and involving citizens in the planning of strategies
Agree on stringent and challenging measurement tools that set clear standards and provide better information on which to base consumption choices, and measure progress made on the low carbon path e.g. life cycle analysis, carbon footprints, labelling
Use financial and fiscal instruments intelligently to incentivise and reward people for lower consumption or more efficient use of energy
Demonstrate low carbon solutions such as model houses and settlements, involving builders, installers and homeowners
Develop soft measures to encourage behaviour change on energy efficiency
Provide sound, easily accessible information to the public to help inform and guide their choices
Base financial decisions on cost - benefit analysis of the entire life cycle of a building, area or product
Connect goals of different policy plans in the planning of new projects