However, making the most of the huge research potential in Europe requires more than financial support for these co-operative activities. What is needed to ensure a productive and efficient future for research in Europe is the creation of a real European Research Area (ERA).

• Why does the EU support research?: Research and technological development (RTD) is an essential element in the socio-economic structure of industrialised countries.
  
• Why does the EU support energy research?: Most problems and challenges in the energy sector are global in nature and thus common to all Member States.
  
• What determines EU support?: To be supported at the European level, research should have demonstrable benefits over research conducted at a purely national or regional level.