‘Renovation Wave’ promises to boost energy performance of buildings

“We have to at least triple and deepen the yearly renovation rate, ensuring that buildings contribute to the EU reducing emissions by at least 65% by 2030 [in order] to reach climate neutrality in line with the Paris Agreement’s commitment.” Buildings Policy Coordinator, Edoardo Concari Coppola.

ENDS Europe

In October, the European Commission launched the Renovation Wave strategy, a flagship of the EU Green Deal.  CAN Europe supported an increase in the rate and depth of energy renovations across the EU, while also tackling the root causes of energy poverty and moving towards renewable-based heating.

CAN Europe, with its members and partners, continuously highlighted the need for higher ambition within the Commission’s renovation strategy. We called for a revision of the main energy policies to overcome existing barriers to energy renovations. We supported a higher, binding 2030 energy efficiency target, mandatory minimum energy performance standards for existing buildings, and adequate financing and technical assistance, especially for vulnerable households. We also called for  Renovation Wave to link with the EU Recovery Package and other spending priorities to encourage national-level energy efficiency investment.

Renovation Wave is a step in the right direction, but it does not bring the sector in line with the Paris Agreement.  CAN Europe is now working on strengthening existing energy policies which impact the building sector such as the Energy Efficiency Directive and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.