The EPBD.wise policy forum held on 11 June 2024 in Budapest began with a series of insightful presentations. Lajos Vass and Eszter Hajdu from EPBD.wise’s in-country partner, ÉMI Nonprofit Kft, opened the session. This was followed by an in-depth presentation on the revisions to the EPBD by Adrian Joyce, Secretary General at Efficient Buildings Europe. 

Discussion on geothermal  

A question from Joyce on the new targets and shares of renewables prompted an interesting debate on geothermal use in Hungary centred around its significant potential and underutilization. There are successful examples of district heating companies operating on renewable energy sources, with some cities partially using geothermal energy for district heating as the country has abundant geothermal water sources.  

The EU is expected to introduce a geothermal strategy in the next five years, highlighting its status as an underestimated resource. The potential for geothermal energy in Hungary far exceeds its current usage and the extent of discussions about it.  

This may be about to change: the Hungarian EU Council Presidency in the second half of 2024 have highlighted geothermal energy as a priority, aimed at “making it more widespread” given its “key role in ensuring energy autonomy and security” and meeting climate goals. 

Despite a successful case where a private geothermal company supplies half of a city’s district heat, the cost remains a concern. Other energy sources, such as waste incineration in Budapest and sewage heat in certain districts, also contribute to the district heating mix. Overall, there is a recognition of geothermal energy as a carbon-free option. 

Training needs and one-stop shops  

Market feedback from building energy certifiers and auditors indicates confusion among professionals, with some lacking a comprehensive overview of the EPBD. Approximately 2,400-2,450 people are certified, with significant numbers in the Hungarian Chamber of Engineers and the Chamber of Architects. Recent changes in building technology and calculation methods mean that advanced training materials, prepared two years ago, now need updating to reflect the recent changes. 

One stop-shops were also discussed: Hungary has two one-stop shops for building energy efficiency advice. One is operated by the Chamber of Engineers, offering free government-funded advice. The other, Renopoint, was established through the EU-funded RenoHUB project, but its subsidy ended last year, leaving it struggling to maintain its five offices. One-stop shops are crucial for EPBD implementation as they simplify the complex process of energy renovation by providing integrated services, guidance, and support to building owners, ensuring more streamlined and efficient project execution. This approach helps increase renovation rates, making it easier to achieve the ambitious energy efficiency and emission reduction targets set by the EPBD.