Large potential in Eastern Europe The potential for energy savings in buildings is huge in Western countries. The challenge of energy effiiency is even greater in Eastern Europe where 8 countries are now EU members and therefore must adhere to stricter environmental standards. It’s not unusual to see roughly twice as much energy for heating being wasted, per the same living area, than in Western European countries, even under similar climate conditions. For decades, energy prices were heavily subsidised giving little incentive to insulate and conserve energy. These times are over. Energy prices have risen sharply and continue to do so. For some, fuel poverty is now reality in Eastern Europe. Poor people in poorly insulated homes cannot afford the higher heating bills – turning off the heat is an unhealthy necessity. Making buildings energy efficient would be healthier For a start it could create nearly 200,000 jobs in the 8 new EU member states alone. And, even with energy prices that have not yet reached the level of Western Europe, the potential for economical, CO2 reducing energy savings is 20% larger per sq.m. living area than in EU-15, according to Ecofys.