EU Mandates Energy-Efficient Buildings by 2050 to Combat Emissions and Poverty

The Council has adopted a revised directive aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy poverty in the EU by improving the energy performance of buildings. The new rules set ambitious targets, including that all new buildings should be zero-emission by 2030 and the entire EU building stock should be transformed into zero-emission buildings by 2050. The directive introduces minimum energy performance standards for non-residential buildings and requires a gradual phase-out of the worst performing buildings. Member states will also focus on renovating residential buildings to achieve energy reduction targets, with a particular emphasis on assisting vulnerable households. Additionally, the directive includes plans to phase out fossil fuel boilers by 2040, promote solar energy installations, and provide sustainable mobility infrastructure. The revised directive will be signed and published in the Official Journal of the EU. Member states will need to incorporate its provisions into their national legislation within two years. The directive will be reviewed by the Commission in 2028 to assess progress and make any necessary adjustments based on implementation experiences. Resources: https://www.esgtoday.com/eu-adopts-law-requiring-all-new-buildings-to-be-zero-emissions-by-2030/