The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) has published a roadmap to ensure that European energy markets better meet the needs of households over the coming decade. While acknowledging the regulatory progress achieved under the European Green Deal, the report argues that market complexity, price volatility and barriers to accessing clean technologies continue to limit consumers’ ability to participate fully in the energy transition.

The report identifies ten priorities to address these challenges:

• Improve contractual information and energy bills.
• Ensure reliable energy offer comparison tools and strengthen the effective enforcement of consumer rights.
• Facilitate access to self-consumption, energy communities and other renewable energy solutions.
• Encourage demand-side flexibility through appropriate price signals.
• Ensure a fair distribution of electricity grid costs.
• Accelerate the replacement of fossil fuel-based heating with heat pumps and renewable district heating.
• Plan the gradual phase-out of gas networks while protecting consumers who remain connected.
• Promote energy renovation through independent one-stop shops, more reliable Energy Performance Certificates and accessible financing.
• Tailor these measures to the needs of different consumer groups, particularly those in vulnerable situations.

The report also highlights the importance of secure and transparent digitalisation, greater energy efficiency in buildings, products and mobility, and the use of revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System for buildings and road transport (ETS2) to support a fair and affordable transition for households.