This report investigates policy needs and good practices related to EPCs in six European countries
(Bulgaria, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Ukraine), aligning with the recent recast of the EPBD.
The analysis focuses on four countries (Bulgaria, Greece, Hungary and Poland) that identified EPCs as
a high priority for policy guidance.

The analysis considers findings from the latest Concerted Action on the EPBD V (CA EPBD V), reports, scientific papers and European projects. Good practice examples extracted from these sources are examined for their potential to address the policy needs identified while considering requirements and opportunities presented by the EPBD recast, Directive (EU) 2024/1275.

The report identifies the following key policy needs that will need to be strategically addressed in a next step of recommendations:

(1) improving EPC database management through standardised data formats and accessible databases;
(2) robust quality control measures are essential to ensure the accuracy and reliability of EPCs;
(3) Training programmes for assessors and verification mechanisms;
(4) communication and public awareness campaigns to improve stakeholder understanding of the value of EPCs.
(5) integrating EPCs with other energy efficiency initiatives, such as Renovation Passports, can provide a more comprehensive approach to improving building energy performance. Solutions for these aspects will be developed in the further steps of the project.

Effective policy guidelines should also incorporate communication strategies to enhance public understanding and promote stakeholder engagement. A multipurpose approach to EPCs that provides diverse information for stakeholders and banks, along with financial incentives, can be highly effective. Resources that seamlessly address diverse policy needs, such as the X-tendo Toolbox, are valuable assets for policymakers.

This report is an essential step in the project, laying the foundational knowledge and strategic
framework necessary for developing tailored, actionable policy recommendations in the next phases.
By identifying and acknowledging existing policy needs, it sets the stage for developing effective policy guidelines that will support the successful implementation of the recast EPBD and help achieve ambitious energy efficiency targets across the European Union.

Together with three other reports, covering National Building Renovation Plans, Renovation Passports and Minimum Energy Performance Standards, this report represents an essential first step in the EPBD.wise project, laying the foundational knowledge and strategic framework necessary for developing tailored and actionable policy recommendations in the next phases of the project.