Sustainability of the European Energy System: The Evolution of the Energy Transition, Renewable Energy, and Energy Conservation

Energy efficiency improvement represents a central strategic objective of the European Union (EU), essential for mitigating climate change and facilitating the transition toward a sustainable energy system. In 2023, renewable energy sources generated approximately 46% of the electricity produced in the EU, becoming the dominant component of the regional energy mix. This progress has been supported by coherent public policies, dedicated investment programs, and regulatory mechanisms aimed at accelerating the adoption of sustainable technologies. However, the existing literature highlights a research gap regarding the relationship between the dynamics of the European energy transition, the operational challenges generated by the rapid increase in the share of renewable energy sources, and the potential for energy savings in the residential sector through non-technological interventions. This paper analyzes the structural transformations of the European energy mix, the limitations of energy systems in the context of accelerated renewable energy integration, and the role of behavioral interventions in supporting the stability of the energy system. The study examines the dynamics of residential energy consumption, behavioral determinants of energy use, and the effectiveness of instruments such as information campaigns, real-time feedback, dynamic pricing, and demand response programs. The results indicate that these interventions can reduce peak loads, increase consumption flexibility, and alleviate pressure on energy networks under conditions of variable renewable energy generation. The integration of energy storage systems and the implementation of low-cost behavioral measures can act as complementary instruments for maintaining the dynamic stability of the energy system and for achieving the EU’s sustainability and climate neutrality objectives.