Work From Home to Save Energy? EU Pushes Bold New Plan
The European Commission is proposing a fixed work-from-home day as part of new measures to reduce energy costs and dependence on fossil fuels.
According to draft plans reported by the Financial Times and Bloomberg, companies would be encouraged to allow employees to work from home at least once a week. The goal is to cut fuel consumption and ease pressure on energy demand.
The proposals also promote greater use of public transport and call for lower VAT on heat pumps, boilers, and solar panels. In addition, electric cars would be supported through social leasing programs to make them more affordable for lower-income households.
Another key measure includes reducing electricity transport costs to lower overall power prices. The European Commission also wants to revise EU rules so that electricity is always taxed less than fossil fuels, though this would require unanimous approval from member states.
Unlike countries such as Germany and Spain, which have reduced fuel taxes, these proposals focus on long-term solutions rather than cutting petrol or diesel excise duties.
The plans are designed to provide direct relief to citizens as energy prices rise due to ongoing global conflicts. Member states are not required to adopt the proposals, but they are expected to influence national policies across Europe.