European Economic
and Social Committee
Energy Digitalisation: Balancing Opportunities and Risks for European Consumers
Background
In the rapidly evolving landscape of the European energy sector, digitalisation emerges as a double-edged sword.
On the one hand, it promises unprecedented efficiency, consumer empowerment and a pathway to a sustainable energy future. Advanced intelligent grids, real-time energy consumption data (leading to wider adoption and proliferation of demand side response at household level), and AI-driven energy management systems can revolutionise how consumers interact with and understand their energy usage. These innovations can potentially democratise energy access, reduce costs and contribute significantly to the European Green Deal's objectives.
On the other hand, there are palpable risks. Data privacy concerns, potential cyber-attacks on energy infrastructure and the digital divide that might leave vulnerable populations behind are issues that cannot be ignored.
The EESC's own-initiative opinion will deal with these complexities, offering a balanced perspective on the opportunities and challenges, ensuring that the digital energy transition is inclusive, secure and truly beneficial for all European consumers.
Key points
The EESC:
- stresses that digitalisation is becoming ever more important in light of the green transition. Energy, however, should remain affordable, adjustable and easy to use for consumers. This entails developing user-friendly digital tools that accommodate diverse needs and promote equal access to digital energy services. Consumers should still be able to choose prices, contracts, and customer services in a ‘pre-digital’ way.
- underlines the priority of user data cybersecurity. Digitalisation amplifies the need to create dynamic consumer protection regulations adapted to the novel contexts and participants in the sector.
- recommends that the training be provided for workers. Net-Zero Academies should be promoted to all interested parties, with an emphasis on energy efficiency skills.
Additional information
Section: Transport, Energy, Infrastructure and the Information Society (TEN)
Opinion number: TEN/838
Opinion type: Own-initiative
Rapporteur: Kęstutis Kupšys (Group III - Lithuania)
Date of adoption by section: 21 June 2024
Result of the vote: 58 in favour, 1 against, 4 abstentions
Date of adoption in plenary: 10-11 July 2024
Result of the vote: 187 in favour, 2 against, 1 abstention
Contact
Marco Pezzani
Press Officer
Tel.: +32 2 546 9793 | Mob: +32 470 881 903
E-mail: marco.pezzani@eesc.europa.eu
Aleksandra Sarman Grilc
Administrator
Tel.: +32 546 8333