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Implementing the Energy Efficiency First Principle in Regional Planning

Introduction to the Regio1st Planning Framework

The Regio1st Planning Framework provides a comprehensive, structured approach for regional energy planners in Europe to develop and implement sustainable, cost-effective energy strategies while prioritizing energy savings in buildings, system flexibilities and other energy efficiency solutions in line with the Energy Efficiency First (EE1st) principle.

The framework is designed to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, align with broader national goals, and address the unique challenges and opportunities of each region.

By following the Regio1st Planning Framework, planners can systematically address the complex challenges of energy planning, develop strategies that maximize the benefits of energy efficiency and renewable energy, and create a sustainable, resilient, and economically viable energy future for their communities.

The framework is organized into eight stages, each containing specific steps that are key to the process. The stages are:

ICCS

The framework also includes a suite of tools, that can assist planners through different stages of the process. These tools aid in data collection, analysis, scenario modelling, multi-criteria analysis, and other essential tasks, while emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency solutions.

Planning Framework Tools

By following the Regio1st Planning Framework, regional energy planners can systematically address the complex challenges of energy planning, develop strategies that maximize the benefits of energy efficiency and renewable energy, and create a sustainable, resilient, and economically viable energy future for their communities.

Ultimately, this framework aims to support Europe’s transition towards a low-carbon, environmentally sustainable, and economically prosperous energy system, in line with the region’s climate and energy objectives, and the Energy Efficiency First principle.

In summary, the Regio1st Planning Framework provides a comprehensive roadmap for regional energy planners to develop and implement sustainable, cost-effective, and energy-efficient strategies and plans that align with the Energy Efficiency First principle and contribute to a low-carbon, environmentally sustainable, and economically prosperous energy system in Europe.

How to use the framework

The Regio1st Planning Framework is organized into eight stages, each containing specific steps that are key to the process. Planners are encouraged to follow the framework in a sequential manner, moving through each stage from preparation to implementation, monitoring, and review. Throughout the process, planners should engage with stakeholders and prioritize energy efficiency measures in accordance with the EE1st principle.

The framework also includes a suite of readily available tools (Excel, PDF, etc.) designed to assist planners through different stages of the process. These tools aid in data collection, analysis, scenario modelling, multi-criteria analysis, and other essential tasks while emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency. By leveraging these tools, planners can streamline the planning process, ensure a thorough and accurate analysis, and make informed decisions that align with the EE1st principle.

Training material – Tutorial videos

The Regio1st partners produced training material, including a series of eight training videos covering every step of the Regio1st planning framework. Aimed at regional energy planners, these materials help planners better use the framework to apply the Energy Efficiency First (EE1st) principle in their decision-making.

You can access these materials using the links below.

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