An open letter released by a coalition of European networks has called on the European Union to continue to support the Intelligent Energy Europe (IEE) programme, a key funding instrument for climate and sustainable energy action. The letter comes in light of Horizon 2020, the new financial framework programme for funding research and innovation, which aims to simplify EU innovation funding instruments through homogenising current rules. ICLEI Europe, Eurocities, Climate Alliance, Energy Cities and Fedarene jointly published the letter.

The coalition calls for the IEE programme to be made a sub-programme of Horizon 2020. It points to its importance in supporting networking and capacity building, developing innovative financing models and management schemes, and in facilitating cross sector collaboration. Local and regional authorities use it extensively to advance their sustainable energy and climate policies. IEE also finances the successful Covenant of Mayors initiative, as well as projects on Sustainable Energy Communities and various innovative new financing mechanisms.

The IEE programme, particularly through the Covenant of Mayors, has reinforced the EU’s efforts to meet its climate and energy targets, helped to create green jobs and enhance economic competiveness – contributing to a greener environment and better quality of life for EU citizens. Between the period 2007 to 2013, €750 million was allocated by IEE to over 500 energy efficiency and renewable projects, involving more than 3,500 organisations. The authors also call on Member States to support the IEE programme.

To view the letter, click here.