DARK AGE COMING

It looks like our enlightened European friends could soon be endarkened:

Europe is at risk of power shortages because demand exceeds investment in new power outlets, says consultancy firm Capgemini.

Colette Lewiner of Capgemini said the study represents a "wake-up call" for the energy industry, governments and regulators.

"How can companies plan for a 10 or 20-year return on investment when governments keep changing the rules of the game?" Ms Lewiner asked.

Never fear, the bureaucracy has a solution:

A commission action plan – due out next week - will propose new EU design regulations for household items such as boilers, TVs and light bulbs and suggest extending EU rules on energy-saving for building design.

A no-more-new-rules rule would be a real sign of progress.