Electricity and gas distribution sectors: rational planning techniques

OBJECTIVE: to introduce new planning techniques in the electricity and gas distribution sectors, which will help improve energy efficiency, cut costs and reduce CO2 emissions. SUBSTANCE: The proposal for a Council directive provides for Member States: - to introduce procedures by which gas and electricity distribution companies periodically submit integrated resource plans to appropriate authorities appointed by the Member States. These plans are to evaluate the whole range of energy resource alternatives on the same economic basis; - to arrange for the implementation of economic measures relating to energy efficiency, as identified on the integrated energy-resource plan; - to review current legislation to ensure that the mechanisms put in place allow companies to cover the costs of the energy-saving programmes which are offered to consumers; - to encourage distribution companies to: . set up comprehensive information programmes to enable consumers to make rational choices in respect of energy efficiency; . offer customers incentives to invest in energy-efficient solutions; . develop energy-use management programmes which are designed for customers on low incomes; . invest in energy efficiency by setting up subsidiaries which offer consumers mechanisms for third-party financing; - to promote the integration of energy-use management options in the tendering procedures for the new distribution capacities, where these procedures exist. - Member States are to cooperate with the Commission in examining the results of the measures taken on the basis of the directive; this review will be carried out every two years and will last for a period of eight years commencing in 1997. �