EU Energy Use Declines, But Transport Sector Defies Trend with Increased Demand
The European Union's energy consumption decreased by 4.1% in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to Eurostat. This decline was primarily driven by reductions in manufacturing and electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply, which fell by 5.5% and 8.7% respectively. However, the transport and storage sector saw an 8.1% increase in energy use, defying the overall trend. The report highlights significant variations in energy use intensity across EU countries over the past decade, with Estonia, Ireland, and the Netherlands achieving the most substantial reductions. Conversely, Malta and Lithuania experienced increases in energy use intensity.