This High Level Policy Session will  contribute to 2 elements that will be instrumental in delivering the Commission’s vision of the Energy Union., namely the establishment of Energy Efficiency as Europe’s ‘first fuel’ and the development of a Heating and Cooling Strategy as part of the broader European energy transition.A range of experts from academia, industry and the public sector will present and discuss a combination of key principles and practical lessons as to how district heating networks can deliver more sustainable thermal comfort in cities and, in combination with a more efficient building stock, support the wider climate and energy ambitions of Europe as a whole. Drawing on the recent publication, DISTRICT ENERGY IN CITIES Unlocking the Potential of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, The United Nations Environment Programme will share a number of inspiring case studies from Europe and around the world.Finally, through dialogue with each other and the audience, the panellists will endeavour to set out concrete policy recommendations for heating and cooling for a range of governance levels as well as identifying the associated challenges and opportunities.