Evaluating the implementation of energy efficiency measures from article 8 and the path to article 11 compliance

Abstract

Energy audits (EAs) and Energy Management Systems (EnMS) are crucial instruments for companies to identify and implement energy efficiency measures (EEMs), thereby contributing to the EU’s climate and energy objectives. The updated Energy Efficiency Directive (EU/2023/1791) strengthens the role of these tools and introduces new provisions under Art. 11. Among these, the directive establishes specific consumption thresholds, requiring the adoption of EnMS for businesses with high energy usage and mandating EAs for other energy-intensive entities. Companies subject to EAs must develop annual implementation plans to systematically adopt the EEMs identified. This paper investigates how EEMs have been implemented under Art. 8 of the Energy Efficiency Directive (2012/27/EU) in ten European countries and explores how existing practices can inform the upcoming obligations introduced by Art. 11 of the revised Directive (EU/2023/1791). The primary aim is to assess the effectiveness of national data collection systems, evaluation methods, and policy tools in supporting the adoption of EEMs by companies. To this end, in 2024, national experts from ten EU member states responded to a targeted questionnaire focused on methodologies and practices related to the implementation of EEMs under the obligations of Art. 8. The study identifies current data availability and transparency practices, evaluates existing indicators and the role of EA guidelines, implementation plans, and facilitating factors. Good practices in the 10 European countries under analysis are also identified and described. Findings show significant variation in how countries collect and publish data, with some demonstrating advanced practices such as centralised databases or audit follow-up requirements. The paper identifies a set of good practices and emphasises the value of stronger coordination and more standardised approaches, particularly in view of the new obligations under Art. 11. By providing insights into current framework, the paper aims to support policymakers and energy agencies in enhancing the effectiveness of EAs and EnMS in driving the implementation of EEMs, thereby contributing to improved energy policy outcomes across Europe.