"During the latest year, the energy price increased by 15% in the European Union, on the average. 54% of the energy used in Europe comes from imports and costs 700 euros per citizen". "We must face this situation urgently, through measures improving energy efficiency and reducing our dependence on imports". José Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission, adds a few data to the presentation of the new instruments "meant to give new impulse to energy security in Europe". The document, required by the Council of the heads of State and government in March 2007, was expected before the mid-December summit, in which the European Union should approve the initiatives on climate change to reach the 20-20-20 objective (that is, 20% reduction of carbon dioxide emissions; 20% increase in efficiency; 20% increase in renewable energy production). The Executive now proposes a "renewed strategy for solidarity in the energy field among member states", as well as a "policy meant to increase investments in more efficient networks which are to distribute energy with low carbon emissions". (To be continued)
