Energy sector: multiannual framework programme 1998-2002

OBJECTIVE: to adopt a multiannual framework programme for actions in the energy sector (1998-2002) and connected measures. COMMUNITY MEASURE: Council Decision 1999/21/EC, Euratom. CONTENTS: The Council has adopted a multiannual framework programme for Community actions in the energy sector for the period 1998-2002. The main aim of the programme is to attain the priority objectives for energy policy, namely security of supply, competitiveness and environmental protection. It also helps to make all actions in the energy sector more transparent and coherent and to coordinate them better and to ensure that financial resources are used efficiently. Efforts are also being made to achieve complementarity with initiatives under research policy or trans-European networks. This programme will be implemented by means of six specific programmes, of a horizontal or thematic nature, corresponding to the following measures: 1) development of a regular programme to monitor markets and energy trends; 2) stepping-up of international cooperation in the field of energy; 3) promoting renewable energy sources; 4) encouraging rational and efficient use of energy resources; 5) promoting the use of cleaner technologies in the solid fuel sector; 6) improving nuclear energy safety. The reference amount for implementing the programme is ECU 170 m, of which ECU 68 m are for the 1998/1999 period. The period of the programme after the year 2000 will be reviewed before the end of that year.�