Energy Performance of Buildings Directive

Buildings are responsible for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of EU CO₂ emissions. Energy performance of buildings is key to achieve the EU Climate & Energy objectives. Under the EU's proposed European Green Deal, the European Commission proposed in September 2020 to raise the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target, including emissions and removals, from 40% to at least 55% compared to 1990 levels. Current EU commitments will also require member States to achieve a 32.5% improvement in energy efficiencies by 2030. This is an increase from 20% by 2020. Improving the energy performance of buildings is therefore a cost-effective way of fighting against climate change and improving energy security, while also creating job opportunities, particularly in the building sector.

The Directive on energy performance of buildings (2002/91/EC) is the main legislative instrument at EU level to achieve energy performance in buildings. Under this Directive, the Member States must apply minimum requirements as regards the energy performance of new and existing buildings, ensure the certification of their energy performance and require the regular inspection of boilers and air conditioning systems in buildings.

These additional ambitions at an EU level aim to provide a pathway for all EU countries to be carbon neutral by 2050. Visit here for further details of EU climate and energy efficiency proposals and here for national level proposals on these issues.