Renovation Wave Strategy (GEN - 1170.00)

European Commission Communication published

GEN - 1170.00.jpg

GEN - 1170.00. This Communication outlines the European Commission’s aims to at least double renovation rates in the next ten years and make sure renovations lead to higher energy and resource efficiency. Besides improving the quality of life for people, the strategy will reduce Europe's greenhouse gas emissions, foster digitalisation and improve the reuse and recycling of materials.

EU Communication

A Communication is a policy paper, drafted by the European Commission after a consultation of interested parties. In a Communication, possible solutions are formulated towards an identified problem. A Communication is addressed to the Council and Parliament and forms the basis for action, in general the drafting or redrafting of EU legislation.

In the case of the Renovation Wave Strategy, the Commission had identified the need to increase the rate of renovations to reach the climate neutral activities by 2050 while at the same time dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The possible approaches are outlined in the 26-page Communication.

Renovation wave priorities

Decarbonisation of heating and cooling

This will build upon the reviews of the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) and the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) by June 2021 and further development of Ecodesign and Energy Labelling measures. The Public Consultations on these revisions are still to be launched (see GEN – 1164.00).

Dealing with the worst-performing buildings

The revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) by the end of 2021 should introduce mandatory minimum energy performance standards and improved Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) that may possibly reflect smartness and sustainability aspects.

Public buildings

Public buildings are expected to lead by example. The Commission will look into developing green public procurement criteria for public buildings.

Funding of the Renovation Wave

The (still to be adopted) Recovery and Resilience Facility set up under the Next Generation EU is intended to facilitate funding directed towards renovation. Practical guidance notes would be developed by the Commission to help the Member States in preparing their plans.

Recommended actions

Dealing with the Recovery and Resilience Facility it will be a major task for national associations to accompany the development of the national plans.

Both manufacturers and associations are recommended to participate in the related Roadmaps and Public Consultations identified in GEN – 1164.00.