Energy sector: multiannual framework programme 1998-2002

The Committee adopted the report in the field of multiannual energy programmes: It is to do with the simplification and coordination of energy policy and is designed to establish priorities. This report by W.G. VAN VELZEN (EPP, NL) deals with the framework programme for actions in the energy sector (1998-2002) and connected measures. The rapporteur welcomed the Commission proposal for an energy framework programme, which was in response to repeated requests from Parliament and Council to increase the coherence, efficiency and transparency of Community actions in the energy sector. It will provide a stable legal basis and improve the coordination of all the measures. The programme would also help to respond better to the EU's key energy problems of security of supply, competitiveness and the environment. At present, actions and programmes (e.g. SAVE, ALTENER and SYNERGY) are based on separate legal acts, timeframes and management committees. They would now come within a single framework. However, MEPs wanted to go further. They called for the establishment of a monitoring system for the implementation of the internal energy market, the strengthening of support in the context of the enlargement process, greater emphasis on the role of energy in the post-Kyoto strategy on climate change and on the key role of combined heat and power, forward analyses and market monitoring, etc. �