The European Commission proposes to countries that, in the face of the energy crisis resulting from the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, they should already "consider promoting voluntary fuel-saving measures". "With special attention to the transport sector," emphasized Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen, who has sent a letter to the 27 capitals proposing that they adopt a decalogue of actions. Among them, "reduce speed limits on motorways by at least 10 km/h" since "lower speeds reduce fuel consumption in cars, vans, and trucks". This is the same measure that the Spanish government of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero took in Spain in 2011.
It also advocates for "telecommuting when possible" as this "reduces the use of oil associated with daily commutes, especially in jobs compatible with teleworking. It also proposes to "avoid air travel when alternatives exist". The goal: "Reducing business flights can quickly alleviate pressure on the aviation fuel market".
Brussels endorses these measures proposed by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and also supports increased use of public transport since "shifting from private cars to buses and trains can quickly reduce oil demand".
It also suggests the possibility of "alternating access of private vehicles to roads in major cities by day," as "license plate rotation systems can reduce congestion and fuel-intensive driving". It also advocates for "increasing carpooling and adopting efficient driving practices".
In his letter to the Member States, Commissioner Jorgensen points out that "the EU's security of supply is still guaranteed," but at the same time, he notes the need to "be prepared for a possible prolonged disruption of international energy trade".
"That is why we need to act now and we need to act together, as a true Union. Only by working together can we be stronger and protect our citizens and our businesses more effectively," adds the Danish official from the Commission.