The new European Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPBD) marks a milestone in the European Union’s energy transition. Published in the Official Journal of the EU on May 8, 2024, this regulation sets out an ambitious framework to achieve zero-emission buildings and accelerate the decarbonisation of the real estate sector.

Key objectives and changes:

  • Zero-emission buildings: From 2030, all new buildings must be zero-emission. By 2050, the entire building stock must meet this standard.
  • Reduction of energy consumption: The goal is to improve the energy efficiency of buildings by 16% by 2030 and between 20–22% by 2035, compared to 2020 levels.
  • Energy renovation passports: By May 29, 2026, every building must have a personalised roadmap for its energy renovation.
  • Gradual phase-out of fossil fuel boilers: As of January 1, 2025, financial incentives for installing fossil fuel boilers have been discontinued.
  • Greater push for renewable energy: Measures will promote self-consumption, the installation of solar panels, and the use of heat pumps in residential and tertiary buildings.
  • Public buildings as benchmarks: Authorities must lead by example, applying maximum energy efficiency standards to their own infrastructure.

Impact and challenges

The construction sector accounts for 36% of greenhouse gas emissions in Europe and 40% of total energy consumption. This Directive entails a profound transformation for property owners, developers, architects, and engineers, who will need to adapt their projects to stricter and more sustainable regulations.

In Spain, the adaptation of the regulations will be carried out through the Technical Building Code (CTE), which will progressively incorporate these requirements in the coming years. Additionally, European funds are expected to be made available to facilitate building renovation and the transition to more efficient infrastructure.

Opportunities for the sector

This new regulation represents an unprecedented boost for innovation in sustainable materials, building digitalisation, and the development of energy efficiency solutions. The HVAC sector will play a key role in implementing these measures, with increased demand for efficient systems such as heat pumps, mechanical ventilation, and advanced energy management systems. Companies and professionals will have the opportunity to lead the transformation towards greener cities, investing in sustainable construction and the renovation of existing buildings.

 

Sources:

https://www.miteco.gob.es/es/energia/eficiencia/epbd2024.html

https://www.boe.es/buscar/doc.php?id=DOUE-L-2024-80664

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/ES/legal-content/summary/energy-performance-of-buildings.html