Energy Digitalisation: Balancing Opportunities and Risks for 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.
• points out that the digital divide between consumers who can afford more expensive digital tools and those who cannot leads to higher energy poverty.
• 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.