Energy efficiency is pivotal in the EU's climate targets, synergising with renewables to curb emissions and reduce energy demand. While renewables scale up, efficiency offers immediate solutions to energy insecurity and fossil fuel dependence. Beyond cost savings, efficiency enhances air quality, job creation, and asset value. Key measures include building insulation and efficient appliances. Also, heat pumps and electric cars demonstrate significant efficiency gains over traditional counterparts. 

However, the focus on unproven technologies like carbon capture and Small Modular Reactors diverts attention from proven efficiency-renewable synergy.