The new EU measures:
The European Commission has set a new target to achieve zero-emission buildings by 2050. This goal is part of the EU’s broader objective of becoming carbon-neutral by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement. The Commission has introduced new measures to increase the rate of renovation in the building sector, with the aim of saving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Buildings are responsible for around 40% of the EU’s energy consumption and 36% of its greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve the zero-emission buildings target, the Commission is focusing on increasing the rate of renovation of existing buildings but also on providing more useful information on the energy performance of buildings.
According to the Commission, by 2028 all new buildings should have zero greenhouse gas emissions. The installation of solar panels is therefore an urgent necessity, as long as they are economically and technically feasible. If the building belongs to a public authority, the deadline is differentiated as it is set until 2026. Finally, buildings that are to undergo large-scale renovation have until 2032.
It is important to note that Member States should develop support mechanisms to ensure that every household has the possibility to access grants. This will enable even the most vulnerable households to make their buildings energy efficient.
Of course, these new EU measures are not aimed at buildings of monumental interest. It is up to the Member States to decide whether churches and places of worship as well as buildings of particular architectural and historical value will be exempted in any case. Finally, public social housing may also be an exception.
“Soaring energy prices are drawing our attention to energy efficiency and energy saving. Improving the energy efficiency of buildings in Europe will reduce our bills and our dependence on imports. We want the directive to reduce energy poverty and emissions, while ensuring better quality indoor spaces for everyone’s health. This growth strategy for Europe will create hundreds of thousands of good quality jobs locally in the construction, renovation and renewable energy sectors, improving the prosperity of millions of Europeans,” said Ciaran Cuffe (Greens).
To achieve the zero-emission buildings target, the Commission is calling on member states to increase their efforts to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. This includes providing incentives for building owners to invest in energy efficiency improvements, increasing the use of renewable energy in buildings, and promoting the use of smart technologies to monitor and control energy consumption.
In conclusion, the Commission’s new measures to achieve zero-emission buildings by 2050 are an essential step towards achieving the EU’s carbon-neutral objective. The measures focus on increasing the rate of renovation of existing buildings, setting higher energy performance standards, promoting innovative and sustainable design, establishing a new financing mechanism, and calling on member states to increase their efforts. The zero-emission buildings target is an ambitious but achievable goal, and it will require the collective efforts of policymakers, industry, and citizens to make it a reality.
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