Several countries and local authorities have introduced innovative policies and programmes to stimulate deep renovation and reduce the CO2 emissions of the building sector, yet a broad dissemination and application of these policies are not taking place. The exchange of information and experiences across regions is much lower than what would be desirable.

This project sets out the foundation for an acceleration and replication of innovative policies that enable a decarbonisation of the building stock. To achieve this goal, the project explores how policy innovation can be increased through the Building Policy Innovation Exchange (BPIX). The project also explores how to best support policymakers looking for guidance on how to develop ‘state of the art’ policies and implement ambitious renovation programmes.

This study outlined ideas on how to improve policy innovation for renovation. Policy innovation is challenging, and it requires novelty in all its stages including the design (and its drivers), the implementation and evaluation. Policymakers at local level would benefit from the availability of funds and from more and improved opportunities to share experience and learn from each other. One of the main highlights of our research is that the learning experience is twofold, consisting of a virtual community (database, platform where information can be searched) and face-to-face experience to share learning (e.g. workshops, learning centres, training programmes targeting local decision-makers, etc.). These elements are complementary.

The BPIX initiative will further explore the opportunity to develop this model in the future.

A presentation on the topic is also available.