Revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive: Fit for 55 package [EU Legislation in Progress]

Written by Monika Dulian (2nd edition, updated on 12.09.2023).

On 15 December 2021, the European Commission adopted a major revision (recast) of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), as part of the ‘fit for 55’ package. This package is a core part of the European Green Deal, which aims to set the EU firmly on the path towards net zero GHG emissions (climate neutrality) by 2050.

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The recast EPBD aims to accelerate building renovation rates, reduce GHG emissions and energy consumption, and promote the uptake of renewable energy in buildings. It would introduce a new EU definition of a ‘zero emissions building’, applicable to all new buildings from 2027, and to all renovated buildings from 2030. The recast EPBD would accelerate energy-efficient renovations in the worst performing 15 % of EU buildings, and would set minimum energy performance standards. In due course, every building would need to achieve at least a Class E on a revised A-G scale of energy performance certificates (EPCs).

The file was referred to the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE), which appointed Ciarán Cuffe (Greens/EFA, Ireland) as its rapporteur. The Parliament adopted its position, based on the ITRE committee’s report, in plenary on 14 March 2023. The Council had agreed on its general approach (negotiating position) on 25 October 2022. The Parliament and the Council are currently proceeding with interinstitutional negotiations.

Versions

• September 2022: Revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive: Fit for 55 package (2nd edition)