New EU Energy Efficiency Guidelines require new construction projects starting in 2018 to create as much energy as they consume.

In the battle against climate change, by 2020 the European Union seeks to reduce greenhouse gases and energy consumption by 20%. A large share is to be borne by buildings, for indeed they are responsible for 40% of primary energy consumption in the EU.

The enacted amendment of the EU Energy Efficiency Guidelines requires buildings constructed starting in 2018 across Europe to generate as much energy as they consume, e.g., via solar collectors or heat pumps. For large renovation projects, all new components of the building must meet these requirements.

Now the member states are challenged. By mid-2011 they need to develop national plans to implement the guidelines. Suggestions include the reduction of sales tax on products and services focusing on energy saving.

Financial support and tax breaks at the EU level

Likewise enacted were new regulations for financing energy-efficient construction. By 2014 an Energy Efficiency Fund is to be established to support private and public investments to increase energy efficiency of buildings. Furthermore, assistance for promoting energy efficiency from funds for regional development is to be significantly increased.

Source: Europarl

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