Policy aspects supporting the efficiency path to a sustainable energy system

5 Policy aspects supporting the efficiency path to a sustainable energy system 

Although the technical feasibility of a 2000 Watt per capita society in the second half of this century has been clarified and its economic feasibility is likely to be achievable at present energy price levels, its practical realisation remains an open question. The external cost of fossil-fuel use and many obstacles at sectoral and technology levels still hinder a fast implementation, as do a limited perception of the motivation and opportunities of possible first movers and supporting actors and a limited understanding of the innovation system. 

1 The European Commission s Action Plan for Energy Efficiency 

For the first time, I have the impression that energy-efficiency potentials are being clearly recognised and adequately addressed by the Action Plan for Energy Efficiency of the European Commission (Commission of the European Communities, 2006). This is a policy programme that supports energy-policy objectives (low energy costs, 

The organisational structure of the energy efficiency community and the related research and innovation system obviously have to be much improved when compared to energy supply communities - whether thermal power plants, renewables, 

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