Saving energy in buildings is a legal and financial necessity

• The amendment to the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) shapes the future of construction in the EU.
• The amendment to the EPBD Directive has been adopted by EU Member States and all countries, including Poland, are currently working on implementing its provisions into their own laws.
• Reducing energy consumption in buildings – including through thermal modernisation, improved insulation and reduction of heat losses – enables the installation of lower-power sources, such as heat pumps or modern boilers.

Decarbonisation of buildings is intended to lead to zero-emission construction by 2050, which will be possible by reducing energy consumption and limiting CO2 and other pollutant emissions – both during the use of the building and during its construction phase.

EU countries are working on implementing the provisions of the directive into their own laws.

The amendment to the EPBD Directive has been adopted by EU Member States and all countries, including Poland, are currently working on implementing its provisions into their own laws.

The document mandates, among other things, the preparation of national renovation plans and the implementation of energy efficiency classes for buildings, ranging from G (the least efficient) to A+ (energy-positive buildings). It also highlights the need to gradually phase out fossil fuel boilers.

The public sector, which aims to serve as a model for others, has been obligated to modernize at least 3% of the total usable floor area of buildings owned by public bodies each year. The goal is to make them nearly zero-emission, and ultimately, environmentally neutral.

"Dom Development is already meeting some of the requirements, including installing photovoltaic panels on all new buildings and preparing the appropriate infrastructure for charging electric cars. However, challenges remain: the availability of power in the grid, the high costs of implementing such solutions, and reconciling legal regulations with the actual financial capabilities of buyers," says Anna Bączyk, ESG and Product Development Coordinator at Dom Development.

A legislative and financial approach is needed

Achieving zero emissions in buildings is only possible by taking coordinated actions – from improving the insulation of external walls and replacing window frames, through modernising lighting, to installing renewable energy sources and developing energy management systems.

The development of infrastructure for electromobility and the introduction of energy storage facilities, which support the broader electrification of residential and commercial buildings, also play a key role.

"Effective decarbonization of buildings requires a systemic approach—both legislative and financial. Introducing energy-efficient building ratings will allow for better renovation planning, reduce energy poverty, and more effectively target support to the most energy-intensive buildings. A long-term renovation program is also necessary, supported financially and institutionally, to create a stable market for building materials producers and contractors," explains Justyna Glusman, Deputy Mayor of the Ochota district in Warsaw.

Improving the energy efficiency of buildings is not only a local benefit but also a crucial element facilitating the decarbonization and electrification of the entire economy. By reducing energy losses, it will be possible to reduce power demand and optimize the use of limited energy resources within the system.

Customers expect high standards and low prices

Experts from the E.On Polska group argue that energy transformation in the construction industry is possible not only thanks to technology and regulations, but also a change in social attitudes.

"Increasingly aware customers expect both high energy standards and lower long-term operating costs. Equally important is the education and engagement of all market participants – from developers and local governments to residents and contractors. Transforming this sector requires long-term thinking, moving away from the quick-profit model and focusing on sustainable environmental and social value," argues E.On.

Reducing energy consumption in buildings – including through thermal modernisation, improved insulation and reduction of heat losses – enables the installation of lower-power sources, such as heat pumps or modern boilers.

"This allows the power released in the system to be used in other sectors and support the widespread electrification and decarbonization of the entire economy. This often-overlooked aspect demonstrates how buildings play a crucial role in shaping the country's energy systemic transformation," assures E.On.