The EU is again pushing businesses toward remote work amid a new energy crisis — FT
The European Commission is preparing a package of emergency measures aimed at sharply reducing energy consumption due to the destabilization of the global market caused by the conflict in the Middle East.
This was reported by the Financial Times.
The main tools for achieving these savings are expected to be the widespread shift of employees to remote work and active subsidies for public transportation.
The official presentation of the plan to EU member states is scheduled for next week.
The strategy is being developed against the backdrop of rapidly rising fuel prices following the blockade of liquefied natural gas terminals and damage to infrastructure in Qatar, which has intensified energy pressure on Europe.
According to a draft document obtained by the Financial Times, businesses will be advised to implement at least one mandatory day of remote work.
This step will significantly reduce daily private car use and cut heating and lighting costs for office spaces.
In addition to remote work, Brussels is proposing that EU countries introduce large-scale subsidies for public transportation.
In some cases, the possibility of making it completely free for the most vulnerable segments of the population is being considered to encourage people to give up their private cars.
Tax incentives for transitioning to green technologies are a separate initiative.
The European Commission is calling on governments to reduce VAT on the installation of heat pumps, solar panels, and energy-efficient boilers, which should provide “immediate relief” for household budgets.
“If we are facing an energy shortage, it is our duty to ensure that citizens know what they can do to reduce consumption,” explained one of the EU’s top officials.
At the same time, Brussels emphasizes that these initiatives are merely recommendations, not mandatory directives.
There is a growing reluctance in European capitals to discuss EU enlargement, particularly Ukraine’s accession.
EU ambassadors do not support Ukraine’s accelerated membership.
Zelenskyy announced negotiations with the EU regarding the protection of the sky.
