European "green house" directive
The European directive called "Green Home" or "European Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings" (EPBD, Energy Performance of Buildings Directive) is a European Union provision which aims to reduce harmful emissions and improve energy efficiency of buildings in Europe. Here are some key points of this directive:
Emissions Reduction Targets: The Green Homes Directive aims to reduce harmful emissions by 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels and to achieve zero emissions by 2050. This is part of the European Union's wider efforts to combat climate changes.
Redevelopment of the Real Estate Stock: The directive promotes the redevelopment of the European real estate stock, encouraging the construction of highly energy efficient buildings and the renovation of existing buildings to make them more sustainable from an environmental point of view.
Energy Classes: The directive establishes criteria for the energy classes of buildings, dividing them into categories from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Existing buildings will need to be upgraded to reach at least class E by 2030 and class D by 2033.
Inspections and Checks: The directive provides for the obligation of periodic inspections of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Furthermore, inspection reports and the participation of independent experts are required to carry out these checks.
Energy Certification: Buildings must have an Energy Performance Certificate (APE) which certifies the building's energy consumption. This document is mandatory in the event of the sale or rental of a property.
Redevelopment Interventions: Energy redevelopment interventions, such as thermal insulation, replacement of fixtures, the installation of solar panels and the use of renewable energy, are promoted to improve the energy performance of buildings.
Penalties: If buildings do not comply with the regulations, there may be sanctions provided by individual Member States.
Exclusions: Some types of buildings, such as monuments, protected historic buildings, churches and second homes used less than four months a year, may be excluded from such interventions.
Fiscal Incentives: The directive could lead to a reform of the system of tax deductions for energy requalification interventions and improvement of building performance.
Implementation Calendar: The directive is expected to come into force in 2025 and will require transposition by individual member states.
The "Green Home" directive is part of European efforts to fight climate change and improve the energy efficiency of buildings, thus helping to reduce harmful emissions and promote a more environmentally sustainable future.
