REEF

REEF: Energy Efficiency First (EE1st)

The REEF project supports local and regional public authorities in implementing the principle energy efficiency comes first (EE1st), as set out in the 2023 Energy Efficiency Directive. The aim is to contribute to achieving the objectives of the EU Green Deal by 2030.

EE1st requires that policy-making prioritises measures to reduce energy consumption over increasing production. REEF enters this context with the overall objective of supporting public authorities at local and regional level in applying the EE1st principle in relevant policy areas, thus contributing to achieving climate goals.

The REEF project brings together 10 partners from the EU and candidate countries. Through interregional learning, they assess barriers to the application of the EE1st principle and explore solutions in the areas of:

• capacity building and understanding,
• EE1st assessment tools,
• integration into the broader policy context,
• funding and incentives.

The result will be improved implementation of existing development strategies, energy and climate plans and EU programmes with a focus on energy efficiency.

Project duration: 1.05.2025-31.07.2029
Total project budget: €1,954,092.00

More information about the project can be found here: REEF – Regions that put energy efficiency first | Interreg Europe