REAL LIFE CLIMATE SOLUTIONS

Climate action means transforming our energy system. As we phase out coal, oil and fossil gas, the way we heat our homes, power our lives, and produce and transport energy will change. While some changes can be scary, these changes will make our real lives better. Here are four examples.

1

Heat pumps

Did you know that 35% of the EU’s energy-related greenhouse gases come from our buildings? Luckily, climate action in the form of installing heat pumps can help. These hugely efficient devices work like a fridge in reverse, sucking energy out of the air or ground and helping to warm (or cool) our homes. By installing heat pumps instead of fossil gas boilers, we can cut climate-harming pollution and make our homes more comfortable places to live.

Find out more about why decarbonising heating and cooling by 2040 is essential for our security, health, and climate: coolheatingcoalition.eu

2

Home renovations

Finding an affordable place to live is becoming increasingly difficult all over Europe. Fortunately, renovating existing buildings to make them safer, more comfortable and more affordable places to live is also a form of climate action. Homes that use less energy enjoy lower bills, and a wave of renovations could turn uninhabited spaces into new places to live, helping to release pressure on the housing market.

Find out more about how can building renovations can benefit millions of people’s lives throughout Europe: buildbetterlives.eu

3

Community energy

When Russian tanks crossed into Ukraine the threat to our gas supply sent energy prices skyrocketing. And we are still suffering the consequences of the inflation this caused. But one group of people were less affected than most: members of local energy communities.

While private energy companies made billions in record profits, these projects helped their members keep control of energy bills and maintained a secure supply of clean, local power. It’s another example of climate action making real life better.

Find out more about about the 2,250 energy cooperatives operating across Europe: rescoop.eu

4

Electricity grids and interconnectors

You’ve probably wondered how we can rely on wind and solar energy when it’s cloudy, dark and still. The answer is surprisingly simple: by upgrading our electricity grids. This high-tech form of climate action will allow us to bring the electricity we need to power our lives from the other side of the country – or continent! New power cables over land and under our streets will ensure we can heat our homes with heat pumps, charge our cars (and bikes!), and power the devices we all love to use. And all with affordable, clean energy from wherever the wind is blowing!

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