Technical report on relevant public support actions in relation to EEM

The report presents an overview of energy efficiency (EE) legislation across EU Member States, forming part of a three-report series on EU EE policies. The first report analyses the legislative landscape in selected energy-efficient mortgage markets (EEMM). The second report summarises insights from a survey of 65 financial institutions on their views regarding the existing EE policy framework and their ability to offer related financial products. The third report evaluates public support schemes through case studies.

The study includes an analysis of 1,048 EE policies from 17 EU countries, focusing on residential and commercial buildings. Key findings reveal that 38% of the legislation involves mandatory standards, while economic tools account for 35%. Residential buildings dominate EE policies due to their significant energy consumption and older construction age. Although the EU has implemented strategic EE directives, policies remain largely country-specific, emphasizing the need for public awareness as a catalyst for EE initiatives.

The report also examines specific policies related to Energy Performance Certificates (EPC), nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB), electrical appliances, and renewable energy integration in buildings. It highlights the effectiveness of legislation on electrical appliances and the efficiency of renewables, although it identifies a need for improved insulation measures and smart metering infrastructure.

Despite the existing regulations, there remains substantial room for enhancing EE in buildings, which has faced setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing energy crisis. Overall, while the EU Green Deal aims to accelerate progress in smart metering and renewables, challenges persist, particularly concerning the transition away from fossil fuels and the high costs associated with nZEB solutions.