European Commission Releases EPBD Implementation Package to Support 11.7% Energy Reduction by 2030

The European Commission has released a comprehensive package of documents aimed at supporting EU Member States in the implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), a key legislative tool under the European Green Deal. The initiative seeks to enhance energy efficiency in buildings, reduce energy bills, and accelerate the roll-out of renewables in the sector.

The package, which includes a Delegated Regulation, an Implementing Regulation, and a detailed Guidance Document with 13 annexes, provides a practical roadmap to help Member States transpose the directive into national legislation by the May 2026 deadline.

The EPBD implementation is critical to achieving the EU’s 2030 target of reducing energy consumption by 11.7%, while simultaneously lowering grid investment needs, reinforcing energy independence, and fostering a stable investment environment for Europe’s construction and cleantech sectors.

Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen emphasized the importance of this directive, stating:

“More than half of Europe’s gas consumption occurs in buildings, which account for around 40% of our energy use and emissions. Improving building performance is essential for both climate action and citizens’ well-being. A more efficient home means lower energy bills and a better quality of life.”

The key components of the package include:

Delegated Regulation on cost-optimal energy performance levels: Offers a methodological framework for setting national energy performance requirements that are cost-effective for building owners, while taking into account local conditions such as building stock characteristics and climate.

Implementing Regulation: Standardizes data reporting templates for national databases to ensure high-quality, comparable information flows into the EU Building Stock Observatory, which tracks progress across the region.

Guidance Document: Provides interpretative and technical clarification on new or amended provisions of the revised directive, responding directly to queries raised by Member States.

The announcement coincides with the inaugural meeting of the Housing Advisory Board, an expert group tasked with advising on sustainable, affordable housing and energy bill reduction.

To further promote digital innovation in the sector, the European Commission and the Danish Energy Agency have also announced a joint webinar showcasing how digital tools can simplify EPBD implementation, increase productivity, and unlock new commercial models for energy renovation in buildings.

This new implementation package forms part of the EU’s broader ambition to decarbonise its building stock, which remains one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in the bloc. Through clear regulatory guidance and collaborative efforts with Member States, the Commission aims to ensure the EPBD drives both environmental progress and economic competitiveness in Europe’s built environment.