According to a new report, policymakers from the European Union (EU) are looking to increase its energy efficiency measures by 30 to 35 percent by 2030. This is in partial response to the ongoing situation in Ukraine, which has recently seen its gas prices spike by 80 percent under order from Russian President Vladimir Putin. The EU aims to be less dependent on just one source of energy, as well as prioritize clean power as an important part of its future.

Two EU sources – who spoke to Reuters anonymously – said there are currently documents making their way through the EU Commission that suggest a target range of energy savings of 30 to 35 percent that would be legally binding for the entire European Union. This is an increase from the current goal of reducing energy use by 20 percent by the end of this current decade, an initiative that is already underway in parts of Europe by constructing more efficient buildings.

The European Commission is the EU's executive body, and the group has already outlined two additional energy goals to be met by the year 2030: Cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent – compared with 1990s levels – and raising the share of renewable energy from 20 to 27 percent. All three of these projects will be taken under consideration from the European Union as a whole, where members will decide whether or not to agree on these new climate goals by October.

No matter where you live in the world, it is important to be mindful of your impact on the planet. Residents of Maryland can schedule a home energy audit with Alban Inspections so they can learn where to cut down on the amount of power they use.