The proposed revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive aims to gradually reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption within the EU building sector, ultimately striving for climate neutrality by 2050. The directive also seeks to prioritize the renovation of poorly performing buildings and enhance information-sharing on energy performance.
Emissions Reduction Targets:
Under the proposed changes, all new buildings should achieve zero emissions by 2030, with those occupied or owned by public authorities required to reach this goal by 2028. Member states will calculate emissions considering the life-cycle global warming potential of a building, encompassing production and disposal of construction materials.
For residential buildings, member states must implement measures to reduce average primary energy consumption by at least 16% by 2030, and by 20 to 22% by 2035.
The directive mandates that member states renovate the bottom 16% of non-residential buildings by 2030, and by 2033, the bottom 26%, through minimum energy performance standards.
Solar Installations and Fossil Fuel Phase-Out:
Member states are urged to progressively deploy solar installations in public and non-residential buildings, and in all new residential buildings by 2030.
Phasing out fossil fuel boilers is another significant aspect of the directive. Member states must outline plans to decarbonize heating systems, aiming to eliminate fossil fuels in heating and cooling by 2040. Subsidies for standalone fossil fuel boilers will be prohibited from 2025, though financial incentives may still be available for hybrid heating systems utilizing renewable energy sources.
Exemptions:
Certain buildings, such as agricultural and heritage buildings, may be exempted from the new regulations. Additionally, member states have the option to exclude buildings of special architectural or historical significance, temporary structures, as well as churches and places of worship.
Reaction and Next Steps:
Rapporteur for the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, Ciarán Cuffe, emphasized the directive’s potential to benefit society by reducing energy bills and addressing energy poverty, while also creating job opportunities. The directive was adopted with 370 votes to 199, with 46 abstentions. It now awaits formal endorsement by the Council of Ministers to become law.
Background:
Buildings in the EU currently account for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed revision is part of the ‘Fit for 55’ package introduced by the European Commission in December 2021. It aligns with the objectives and proposals from the Conference on the Future of Europe (CoFE), aiming to enhance energy independence and sustainability within the EU.