Revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive: Fit for 55 package

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.The recast EPBD seeks to accelerate building renovation rates, reduce GHG emissions and energy consumption, and promote the uptake of renewable energy in buildings. 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. Parliament and the Council reached a provisional agreement on 7 December 2023, which now needs to be formally adopted. It states that all new buildings should be zero-emission as of 2030; new buildings occupied or owned by the public sector should be zero-emission as of 2028. Member States will have to ensure a reduction in the average primary energy used in residential buildings of at least 16 % by 2030 and in a range between 20-22 % by 2035. Member States will be required to renovate the 16 % worst-performing non-residential buildings by 2030 and the worst-performing 26 % by 2033 on the basis of minimum energy performance requirements. Third edition of a briefing originally drafted by Alex Wilson. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.