Energy conservation is a key focus, be it by turning down heating, limiting the use of air conditioning or eliminating waste. Next comes energy efficiency. This includes adopting eco-driving techniques, particularly smooth acceleration and braking, and better insulating our buildings. This year, to do our bit to ease pressure on Europe’s energy system we’re taking action to quickly and significantly reduce consumption during peak periods. Hopefully this is just a temporary requirement.
[Round Table] Energy conservation : How the transport sector is meeting the challenge
The hike in energy prices has impacted all sectors of the economy – including transport. Public transport authorities (PTAs) are facing spiralling operating costs, while some passengers, such as those in the Paris region, have seen fares increase by more than 10%. This raises issues about the future of mobility, the solutions available and potential avenues for absorbing these costs. We asked a group of experts to share their views.
« We’re using all available levers to reduce energy consumption and, ultimately, GHG emissions. »
Antonia Höög, Sustainable Development and Engagement Director, Keolis Group.
« All our networks will be impacted, since energy is one of the largest operating expenses after payroll. »
Karine Mabillon, Transport Managing Director, Bordeaux Métropole.
To help us cope with the substantial price increase, a decision needs to be taken on the potential sources available for financing the additional costs: the transport payroll tax, the Bordeaux Métropole authority’s budget and, lastly, passenger fare revenue. We can all make small savings but the only decision that would have an immediate and significant impact on our energy consumption would be to cut back on services, for example, in the evenings and on Sundays. However, this is not on the agenda.
« High energy requirements are at the heart of the transport sector’s challenges. »
Aurélien Bigo, Engineer and Researcher in the Transport sector's energy transition.
Until we reduce consumption and shift to more energy efficient transport solutions, the strong pressure on prices won’t relent. So one of the effects of the current crisis will be to step up the move to more energy- and resource-efficient modes of transport. Of course, this can be done on an individual level, but above all we need a collective commitment, backed by public policies that actively encourage the shift.
« For consumers, energy conservation means changing their travel habits, such as opting for public transport. »
Bruno Gazeau, President of FNAUT (France's National Federation of transport users).
To make this happen, we have to continue developing our networks and return to pre-Covid levels of service. For public transport services to meet people’s expectations, local authorities need to continue investing. This will encourage people to switch from fossil-fuel private cars to public transport.