EP - to be fair to Andris, most EU energy policy statements do mention / focus upon efficiency. It is just omitted from this blog article - which has focussed on salvation via renewables.

I think that you and I are pretty much in agreement that the way to go is a combination of energy efficiency and use of energy efficient alternatives - which does not include bio fuel. Correct me if I'm wrong here.

EP,
In our last saga, about the ICE vs battery, I quoted VW as an example of a major automobile manufacturer who had just invested in common rail diesel technology, although it already had a leading "unit injector" design under the "PD" designation. I don't know who/what Passivhaus is, but I get the gist of your comment. Germany has very predominant car manufacturing industry and is obviously reluctant to implement any policy that may damage that. It is also a major EU economy and is against speed limits on its Auto Bahns. Speed restriction is a very cost effective way of fuel conservation as I'm sure you agree. In contrast, the UK will implement any amount of legislation as long as it does not affect finance.

Changing the subject, Jevons's paradox is alive and well. My first diesel was a Montego estate. It was direct injection and offered very good fuel economy at the time. A work collegue had also bought a similar vehicle, he was an ex coal miner. He said to me in his North Notts/yorkshire accent " Trouble is youth, thou buys a car that does twice miles per gallon, but thee ends up doing trice the miles and you gain nowt.