The impact of EPBD on sustainable construction

Did you know that buildings are the largest energy consumers in Europe? Homes and other buildings are responsible for about 40% of energy consumption (less in the Netherlands). The European Commission aims to improve the energy performance of buildings. Will the revised directive, EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive), help? This update is designed to keep buildings "on track" to become zero-emission buildings (ZEB) by 2050. The Netherlands must implement many elements of this directive by the summer of 2026. What does that entail?

• New buildings towards ZEB

From BENG to ZEB. Zero-emission buildings will become the new standard for new constructions, replacing the BENG requirements. Starting January 1, 2028, new government buildings must be emission-free, and this requirement will apply to all new buildings by 2030.

• Renovation of the worst-performing buildings

A distinction is made between residential and non-residential buildings. Member states must introduce their own paths to reduce the average energy consumption of their housing stock. The aim is a reduction of 16% by 2030 and 20–22% by 2035 (compared to 2020). More than half of the reduction must come from renovating the worst-performing homes, addressing issues like energy poverty and vulnerable households. Exceptions apply to monuments and temporary buildings. There are no mandatory renovation obligations for homeowners. For non-residential buildings, 16% of the worst-performing buildings must be addressed by 2030 and 26% by 2033 (compared to 2020).

• Energy labels

Energy label classifications will not be harmonized across Europe. The Netherlands will retain the A to G classes, but their meanings will change. Energy label A will represent a ZEB (zero-emission building). By 2030, the existing A+ class will disappear, with the potential addition of an A0 class for emission-free buildings. Energy labels will remain valid for 10 years, and monuments will also become subject to label requirements.

• All new buildings "solar-ready"

New buildings must be "solar-ready," meaning their roof structures must be strong enough to support PV panels. Additionally, major renovations of public buildings and parking lots (over 250 m2) must include solar panel installations.

• Introduction of the Building Renovation Passport

A Building Renovation Passport will be introduced to assist homeowners in renovating their properties. This will be created alongside the energy label and involve an on-site visit.

• One-stop shops

Countries will be required to establish "one-stop shops" where households and SMEs can access information. Where and when will these one-stop shops be available?

• One for every 80,000 inhabitants;
• Per region;
• In areas where the average building age is higher than the national average;
• In areas with ongoing renovation programs;
• Within a location reachable in less than 90 minutes by local transport.

The one-stop shop must provide independent advice. An online energy portal alone will no longer suffice 😉

• Phase-out of fossil fuel heating systems

Subsidies for fossil fuel installations, such as gas boilers, will no longer be allowed starting in 2025, with an exception for hybrid heating systems. By 2040, these systems must be fully phased out.

Wow... those are quite a few changes. Were you already aware of these? Together, we face a significant challenge with these renewed frameworks. The stricter EPBD calls for innovative solutions and technologies. Do you have any ideas? Let Gijs-Jan know by emailing g.groeneveld@sobolt.com.