Setting the way to decarbonised, efficient, and affordable buildings beyond 2030

The current geopolitical context is causing spikes in energy prices (100 days after the outbreak of the war in Iran, Europe’s bill for fossil fuel imports increased by over EUR 62 billion) and underlines once again Europe’s energy dependence. A structural reduction of energy demand through efficiency – particularly in buildings, which account for 40% of the EU’s energy use and over half of EU gas consumption – is the most effective way to reduce EU dependency on fossil fuel imports.

To incentivise industry players and building owners to invest, the European Commission should propose a coherent post-2030 energy efficiency framework, backed by adequate financing. This framework must build on the proven success of the EU energy efficiency framework and the stability provided by the current Energy Efficiency Directive (EED). It should strengthen key provisions and unlock the full potential of buildings as a cornerstone of a secure, affordable and decarbonised energy system.

Beyond savings, the framework must set the way towards a competitive and resilient energy system, while delivering multiple benefits, including lower bills, improved comfort, health and wellbeing, reduced energy poverty and job creation. Its implementation should be supported by stronger governance, adequate financing, effective monitoring and digital tools that enable continuous energy efficiency improvement in buildings.

Efficient Buildings Europe calls for the post-2030 framework to:

• Adopt a dedicated EU energy efficiency target for 2040, expressed in energy consumption.
• Use KPIs as delivery indicators, not as substitutes for the headline target.
• Strengthen implementation and enforcement, including better monitoring, corrective mechanisms, technical assistance and stronger application of the Energy Efficiency First principle.
• Support public authorities to reach their savings obligations through the Public Procurement Act, project-development assistance, aggregation of smaller public building projects, and access to blended finance.
• Include a digital pathway for energy efficiency in buildings the post-2030 planning and strengthen the follow-up obligations to energy audits.
• Align NECPs with National Building Renovation Plans, Social Climate Plans and local Heating and Cooling Plans.