The 2024 EPBD part 2: Building Renovations and MEPS

Following September's newsletter (Understanding the new 2024 EPBD and its Impact on Smart Buildings), which introduced the goals and areas of the new EPBD, the following series of articles will break down the most important areas of the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.

This article will take a closer look at two important EPBD pillars and their implications in the smart home and building industry: (1) why the directive has increased its focus on renovation and carbon neutrality; And (2) the revision of the MEPS in the different building categories.

1. Why the EPBD Increases its focus on Renovation and Carbon Neutrality

Buildings represent one of the largest potentials for carbon reduction as they account for approximately 40% of energy consumption and 36% of carbon emissions in the EU. Therefore, the updated EPBD focuses on renovations, aiming to decarbonize the building sector and ensure that buildings will achieve zero-emission status by 2050.

Current Scenario and Goal

·??????? Currently, about 35% of the buildings in the EU are over 50 years old, and almost 75% of the buildings are not efficient. Besides, the average annual energy renovation rate is only about 1%.

·??????? To address this situation, the EPBD aims to double the renovation rate by 2030, reaching 2% annually. This increase is essential for achieving the EU’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from buildings by at least 60% by 2030.

·??????? Furthermore, to ensure decarbonization of buildings, the new EPBD will help the EU phase out boilers using fossil fuels by introducing a legal framework for EU countries. Specifically, Member States will have to set out specific policies and measures in their Building Renovation Plans regarding the phase-out of fossil fuels in heating and cooling by 2040. By then, the direct emissions of the buildings sector will have to decrease between 80%-89%.

·??????? The goal is clear: the revised EPBD requires each EU Member State to establish a plan aimed at transforming all buildings into highly energy-efficient, decarbonized, and zero-emission by 2050.

2. Revision of the MEPS in the different building categories

The revised EPBD introduces Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) to address energy inefficiency in Europe’s building stock. These standards set mandatory minimum thresholds for energy performance, requiring buildings to achieve a certain level of energy efficiency by specified deadlines. Here are the key MEPS introduced:

For Commercial Buildings:

·??????? The 16% most energy-inefficient buildings must meet specified MEPS by 2030. This phase targets the highest energy consumers such as offices, retail spaces, and hotels.

·??????? The second phase extends to cover 26% of energy-inefficient buildings by 2033, prioritizing energy and carbon reductions in large, high-usage commercial buildings.

·??????? Public buildings (schools, hospitals, and government offices) over 250 square meters will need to demonstrate energy efficiency improvements.

·??????? Specific exemptions may apply for certain building types, such as historical buildings.

For Residential Buildings:

·??????? Each Member State sets a national trajectory to reduce primary energy use by 16% by 2030 and 20-22% by 2035. It needs to be considered at least 55% of the reduction must come from renovations targeting the worst-performing residential buildings.

·??????? MEPS here allows flexibility for Member States to decide which buildings to focus on and which specific measures to implement.

·??????? Homeowners are not obligated to renovate under this directive, but incentives and support are strongly encouraged.

For New Buildings:

·??????? Zero-Emission Standard: All new buildings are required to achieve zero on-site emissions from fossil fuels by specific deadlines: by January 2028 for all new public buildings and by January 2030 for all other new buildings.

·??????? All new constructions must utilize renewable energy sources.

For Buildings Undergoing Major Renovations:

·??????? MEPS requires the integration of energy-efficient materials and systems as part of the renovation process.

·??????? Specific thresholds vary by building type and Member State requirements.

Large Buildings:

·??????? Large buildings, both residential and non-residential, must meet “nearly zero-energy buildings” (NZEB) standards in line with the National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) set by each Member State.

Conclusion: Meeting The EPBD Targets with KNX

The goals set by the 2024 EPBD present a great opportunity for KNX professionals. As the directive pushes for renovations and improved energy performance standards, the demand for smart technology solutions that can monitor, manage, and optimize energy in buildings will only increase. KNX technology is uniquely positioned to meet these needs, providing a secure ecosystem for achieving the energy efficiency and zero-emission targets outlined in the EPBD.

With KNX, professionals can deliver scalable systems that not only comply with energy performance standards but also enhance building automation, comfort, and sustainability. This shift opens new business opportunities, from retrofitting existing buildings to equipping new constructions with KNX solutions.

Casto Ca?avate

Marketing Manager at KNX Association