White certificate schemes or Energy Efficiency Certificates (EECs) have emerged as key drivers in achieving emissions reductions. These market-based mechanisms encourage companies across several sectors to develop energy-saving projects by providing tradable certificates for verified savings. In other words, these schemes promote meaningful and actionable climate action. On one hand, the schemes reward companies for energy-saving efforts; on the other hand, these programs drive progress toward EU energy efficiency goals and create business opportunities in the growing green economy. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), energy efficiency measures could account for up to 40% of the emissions reductions needed to meet global climate targets by 2040.
In this article, we will delve into the White Certificate Scheme active in France, Poland, Italy and Spain.
France: A leader in the Energy Efficiency lanscape with Certificats d’Économies d’Énergie (CEE)
France has long been a leader in energy efficiency, and its white certificate scheme, known as Certificats d’Économies d’Énergie (CEE), launched in 2006, is one of the most comprehensive in Europe. Energy suppliers are tasked with achieving energy savings through direct action or by supporting third-party projects. From home insulation to industrial process improvements, the breadth of eligible projects under the CEE program is impressive.
Now in its fourth phase (2018-2022) and transitioning into its fifth (2022-2025), the CEE continues to drive innovation. France has maintained a strong focus on residential energy efficiency improvements, ensuring that climate action is not only a corporate responsibility but also accessible to everyday citizens. The French government reported that by the end of 2021, the CEE program had generated cumulative energy savings of over 2,400 TWh, equivalent to the energy consumption of nearly 10 million households annually.
Poland: A Growing Market for Energy Savings (PMEF)
Poland’s white certificate scheme, launched in 2013, has become a cornerstone of the country’s energy efficiency strategy. This market-based approach encourages energy companies to either implement energy-saving projects or purchase certificates from those who have. What makes Poland’s approach stand out is its focus on industries, residential sectors, and public services, ensuring that energy-saving solutions reach every corner of the economy.
With certificates traded on the Polish Power Exchange (TGE), Poland has created an efficient marketplace for energy efficiency, providing businesses with financial incentives to invest in sustainable practices. In 2020, Poland's white certificate scheme helped achieve an annual energy saving of over 1 TWh, contributing significantly to its goal of reducing primary energy consumption by 7.3% by 2030, in line with the EU’s Energy Efficiency Directive. Recent updates in 2021 have further refined the program, ensuring it stays aligned with European Union energy targets.
Italy: A Pioneer in Energy Efficiency with Titoli di Efficienza Energetica (TEE)
Italy’s Certificati Bianchi (White Certificates) scheme, introduced in 2005, was one of the first in Europe and remains a key driver of the country’s energy efficiency efforts. Energy distributors are required to achieve annual energy savings by implementing projects or purchasing white certificates on the market.
Covering sectors from industrial processes to transport and residential buildings, Italy’s program incentivizes energy efficiency on a wide scale. The well-established certificate trading system offers businesses a flexible way to meet their savings goals, with a particular focus on verifiable and measurable results. As of 2020, Italy’s white certificate scheme had resulted in over 28 million tons of oil equivalent (Mtoe) in cumulative energy savings, underscoring its critical role in the country's energy strategy. Recent revisions have tightened project criteria, ensuring that Italy remains a leader in sustainable energy management.
Spain: Recently launched a White Certificate scheme (CAE)
Spain was initially focused on financial contributions to a national energy efficiency fund when it introduced an energy efficiency obligation scheme through Royal Decree 18/2014. However, since the launch of a white certificate (WC) scheme, the emphasis has shifted. Unlike Poland and France, which have well-established systems, Spain is steadily working towards fully integrating a certificate-based system. This shift is expected to foster greater accountability for energy savings while opening new opportunities for businesses to engage in energy efficiency projects. With ambitious targets set under its National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) to improve energy efficiency by 43% by 2030, Spain is likely to see significant growth in its white certificate framework. As the system evolves, increased participation from energy companies aiming to meet their obligations in innovative ways is anticipated.
At STRIVE by STX, we are committed to helping businesses across Europe navigate these complex systems. Our tailored Energy Efficiency solutions ensure that companies not only meet their obligations but also leverage these schemes to enhance their sustainability strategies. Whether it’s managing certificates or implementing energy-saving measures, we provide practical solutions that make a tangible impact on your decarbonization journey.
Now is the time to explore how white certificate schemes can support your energy efficiency and climate goals.
