Most buildings in the European Union are still energy inefficient. The so-called Buildings Directive may change this, although many myths have arisen around its introduction. Publications produced in collaboration between experts from the Institute for Reform and the Renovation Wave Association explain the benefits of the new regulations and showcase good practices from across Europe.

Although we spend most of our lives in buildings, their condition often leaves much to be desired. Too low temperatures in winter, heat in summer, humidity and poor access to light – all these factors have a real impact on our health, well-being and quality of life. In addition, the costs of maintaining flats are often very high. 

Studies show that as many as 75% of buildings in the European Union are still energy inefficient, and two-thirds of the energy used for heating and cooling them still comes from fossil fuels. Buildings account for 40% of final energy consumption in the EU and 36% of EU greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel combustion. 

To change this, in 2024 the European Union proposed the so-called Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), which aims to improve energy efficiency and air quality in buildings. Its implementation in Poland could bring a number of benefits, ranging from environmental protection and reducing energy poverty to economic development and improved quality of life. 

The new Renovation Wave report – another result of the cooperation between the Reform Institute and this multi-sector association since 2022 – highlights the impact of the implementation of the EPBD on key economic, environmental, health and social indicators affecting the standard of living in Poland. 

The second publication, Good practices in the use of energy class systems in the creation of support programmes for building modernisation, presents good practices from European countries that have successfully incorporated energy efficiency into programmes supporting building modernisation. Among other things, it shows an important role played by energy performance certificates, which will become even more significant in the coming years. Regardless of the factors considered by support mechanisms, energy performance certificates are always their common denominator. The authors of the study also argue that the energy performance rating system for buildings should be designed appropriately and carefully. 

We recommend reading the documents to decision-makers, entrepreneurs and anyone looking for information on the benefits of building modernisation in Poland. 

The report ‘Poland’s Renovation Wave. Benefits for Poland until 2035’ was produced with the support of the Clean Air