EU Leaders' Appeal: Delay in the Action Plan for Heat Pumps Risks Investments and Energy Independence

More than 60 CEOs in the heat pump sector have raised alarms about the potential economic and employment consequences of delaying the European Union's action plan for this key technology for the continent's energy independence.

In a letter addressed to European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen, the leaders stressed that any delay would jeopardize the planned investments of approximately 7 billion euros for the period 2022-2025, a vital capital to support expansion and innovation in an industry that already accounts for over 160,000 jobs in Europe and presents significant growth opportunities.

The Heat Pump Industry Faces a Critical Situation

The heat pump industry, recognized by the European Commission as fundamental to achieving Europe's energy independence goals outlined in REPowerEU and the Green Deal, is now facing a critical situation.

The publication of the EU's action plan, initially scheduled for early 2024, was expected to provide concrete support to maximize the sector's potential. However, recent political developments and the decrease in gas prices have led to a decline in consumer and investor confidence, causing a probable downturn in heat pump sales by the end of 2024.

The international context sees countries like the United States and several Asian nations intensifying their support for this technology, making it even more urgent for the EU to act to avoid losing ground in the race towards a more sustainable and independent energy future.

The EU Action Plan Must Provide Clear Policy Guidelines

The leaders' request is therefore extremely clear: the EU action plan for heat pumps must be released without further delay, providing clear policy guidelines and encouraging the economic accessibility of heat pumps to strengthen industry and consumer confidence and capitalize on the investments already made.

Martin Forsén, President of the European Heat Pump Association, emphasized the importance of a strong heat pump market for Europe, highlighting the benefits in terms of industrial leadership, job creation, decarbonization, and protection against gas price volatility.

He criticized the European Commission's decision to slow down the action plan, calling it contrary to current needs and urging the rapid publication of the plan to realign Europe towards its goals of energy independence and zero-emission competitiveness.

The letter to the European Commission adds to a previous appeal signed by 19 organizations and NGOs, which called for the same urgency in publishing the heat pump action plan, underscoring a broad consensus on the importance of accelerating support for this essential technology for Europe's sustainable energy future.