On Friday, April 12, the EU Council formally adopted a revised version of the directive on the energy performance of buildings, the so-called Green Homes Directive, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy poverty in the EU.
Under the new rules, all new buildings must be zero-emission by 2030 and the entire EU building stock, including Cyprus, must be converted to zero-emission buildings by 2050. For non-residential buildings, the directive introduces minimum energy efficiency standards. Under the new rules, all non-residential buildings will have to be above 16% of worst performing buildings in 2030 and above 26% of worst performing buildings in 2033.
This will lead to a phase-out of non-residential buildings with the worst performing buildings," said a Council spokesperson.
EU member states are expected to be able to exempt certain buildings from the regulations if they choose. For example, historic and religious sites. In doing so, they will have to ensure that the average primary energy consumption of residential buildings is reduced by 16% in 2030 and 20-22% in 2035.
In their restructuring efforts, EU countries will implement technical assistance and financial support measures, with a particular focus on vulnerable households," the Council statement further said.
In addition, in order to decarbonize the building sector, national building renovation plans will include a roadmap to phase out fossil fuel boilers by 2055.
The new regulations will also ensure that suitable solar systems are installed in new buildings, public buildings and existing non-residential buildings whose renovation requires a permit. The innovations include infrastructure for sustainable mobility, including charging points for electric vehicles inside or adjacent to buildings, pre-cabling or ductwork to accommodate future infrastructure, and bicycle parking.
As a reminder, buildings are one of the most effective ways to reduce carbon emissions. This can be done by ensuring efficient use of energy for heating, cooling and power, as well as obtaining energy from renewable sources. By the way, better and more energy efficient buildings in Cyprus will improve the quality of life of citizens and at the same time reduce their electricity bills.
