Energy Policy and Energy Performance of Buildings Directive: what matters from 2022

The revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and related national regulations will have a major impact on the energy use of buildings and the achievement of environmental targets. Understanding this area of energy policy is key for both the public and businesses. Our article provides a comprehensive overview of the energy review requirements from 1 January 2022, the main objectives of the EPBD review and key dates for the future in relation to energy efficiency in buildings. Find out what you need to do to ensure energy efficient and sustainable building operation.

 

Mandatory Energy Review: what does it mean and who does it apply to?

2022. From 1 January 2011, certain heating and air conditioning systems will be subject to mandatory energy audits. This obligation covers the following cases:

• Heating systems with an effective rated output greater than 70 kW or combined space heating and ventilation systems.
• Air conditioning systems with an effective rated output greater than 70 kW or combined air conditioning and ventilation systems.

 

Objectives of the Energy Review

The basic objectives of an energy audit (inspection) are:

• System efficiency assessment: assesses how optimally the heating/air conditioning system is working.
• Evaluating the sizing of the system in relation to the building: checks that the performance of the system meets the needs of the building.
• Optimising system performance: makes recommendations to improve the energy use of the system.

 

Frequency of the Review

The energy audit is mandatory according to the following schedule:

• As part of the mandatory energy audit every 4 years.
• Every 8 years in other cases.

The Actors and their Responsibilities in the Energy Review

Several key institutions are involved in the successful implementation of this aspect of energy policy:

 

Hungarian Chamber of Engineers

The tasks of the Hungarian Chamber of Engineers in relation to the energy audit:

• Professional verification of the findings, recommendations and exemption certificates indicated in the inspection report.
• Providing advice to the public and the business sector.

 

National Climate Protection Authority

The National Climate Change Authority plays a key role in regulating energy efficiency:

• Maintain a database to keep track of energy audits.
• Assessment of compliance with the energy audit obligation.
• Impose a fine in case of non-compliance.

Review of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD)

The revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) is essential to achieve the EU’s long-term climate goals. This Directive sets energy performance requirements for buildings.

 

Main Proposals and Objectives

As part of the EPBD review, a number of new standards and targets have been set:

• Preparation of a national action plan for building renovation:
  • With specific building renovation and emission reduction targets for 2030, 2040 and 2050.
  • The Commission will assess the plans and issue country-specific recommendations where necessary.
• Building renovation passport for residential buildings: this passport will be introduced from 2025.
• Allow only new zero-energy buildings (from 2030):
  • In the meantime, all new buildings should be at least near-zero energy.
• Definition of minimum energy standard: For comprehensive renovation of existing buildings.
  • From 2027, 2030and 2033, properties offered for sale or rent will have to comply with minimum energy performance E, D, C.
• Provision of charging infrastructure and bicycle storage: both in residential and non-residential buildings.
• Developing a smart building indicator: to assess the smart technologies and efficiency of buildings.
• Develop a national database for building energy performance certificates.

Funding Grants

Member States should provide adequate funding, support measures and other instruments to encourage energy-efficient building renovation. As part of this, they can also make use of ETS (Emissions Trading System) revenues.

 

The revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and related national legislation will bring significant changes in the energy use of buildings. The obligation to carry out energy audits, tightening energy standards and new financing opportunities are all designed to improve energy efficiency and sustainability. It is important that owners and operators are aware of these regulations and take the necessary steps in good time.

Do you have questions about the energy audit or the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive?

Contact us and our experts will help you navigate the legislation and optimise the energy use of your building.