Interpreting the Energy Efficiency First Principle: Help or Hindrance for the Hydrogen Economy?

The Energy Efficiency First Principle (EE1 Principle) is fundamental to the European Union’s (EU’s) energy policy, highlighting energy efficiency initiatives over supply-side alternatives. This article analyses the development, implementation, and obstacles of the EE1 Principle within the EU’s legislative framework. It examines the principle’s incorporation into essential legislative texts, and its influence on decision-making processes, using hydrogen as an example.Notwithstanding its elucidation in legal texts in recent years, the execution and implementation of the EE1 Principle is lacking in various Member States. However, the article posits that the EE1 Principle can assist in the development of the hydrogen market, whilst balancing this objective with promoting a more integrated, efficient, secure and carbonneutral EU energy system. Its implementation at the EU level, particularly during the process for: (1) integrating the EU-wide ten-year network development plans (TYNDP) for electricity, gas and hydrogen; and (2) selecting the Projects of Common and Mutual Interest, is of the upmost importance.The article concludes that although the EE1 Principle is a helpful tool for establishing a sustainable, diverse and resilient energy system, overcoming the associated implementation obstacles is crucial for its success. The efficient implementation and oversight of the EE1 Principle will be vital for promoting a broad and sustainable energy mix.