On March 8, 2006, the EU Commission President launched a proposal for a new European Energy Policy, entitled “A European Strategy for sustainable, competitive and secure energy.” ^[1]  Despite strong lobbying from the traditional energy industry, the proposal lays the foundation for the EU to become the world's most energy-efficient region.

Recently, the EU has become the world leader in alternative energy development, after spearheading the Kyoto Protocol, which came into effect in 2005 and which has completely transformed the global alternative energy market.  The EU has set specific deadlines for member nations to convert to renewable energy sources, with a lofty goal of achieving 21% energy from renewable sources by 2010.

The new EU energy policies are the direct result of the heightened consciousness of the EU people.  In a survey released in January, 2006, 40% of EU citizens declared that they would be willing to pay higher energy bills if the energy was from renewable sources.^[2]

On April 2, 2006, the EU Commission launched legal proceedings against several members for failing to keep to deadlines.  This remarkable act shows that the EU is willing to keep to its commitments and is a powerful example for other regions.  EU citizens have done an immeasurable service to future generations of all nations through its courageous new energy policies. ^[3]