A better performing and smarter building stock is the cornerstone of a decarbonised EU energy system. In addition to vast energy savings, the building sector has the potential to provide flexibility to the energy system through energy production, control, storage and demand response, as well as green charging stations for electric vehicles. Buildings can also contribute to healthier living and well-being through improved indoor environmental quality (IEQ), and are an integral part of green infrastructure and a sustainable and decarbonised built environment.

The latest study by BPIE, Creara, Ecologic and Climact for DG Energy provides lessons learned from existing legal and non-legal policy instruments in 15 European Member States, 3 non-EU countries and 5 European regions. It formulates possible ways forward in informing integrated approaches for the renovation and modernisation of the building stock and the built environment. The study provides an understanding of how provisions within seven strategic areas and their interaction can be designed and amended to meet the European Union’s long-term target to be climate-neutral by 2050 while maximising synergies and benefits.

The following strategic areas were identified and explored in detail:

▪Built environment sustainability and adaptation to climate change

▪Clean and sustainable mobility

▪Digital technology

▪District approaches

▪Engaging transformation and phasing out inefficient buildings

▪Financing renovation

▪Health and wellbeing

Read the full report here.