Expert opinion on the GEG and the implementation of the EPBD

Tobias Seeliger - stock.adobe.com

The building sector faces ambitious targets: climate neutrality by 2045, a 65% reduction in emissions by 2030 and 88% by 2040 (in each case compared to 1990), and compliance with the total annual emissions for the building sector defined in the German Climate Protection Act. How can policy instruments – in particular the Building Energy Act (GEG) – be further developed in such a way that they contribute to achieving these targets and are economically viable and socially balanced?

This question was at the heart of the research project ‘Study on the GEG and the EPBD’ (2021–2024). The project accompanied the revision process for the European Buildings Directive (EPBD), analysed its scope for implementation in the GEG and developed proposals for requirements for new buildings and existing buildings. In addition, it included economic assessments, analyses of social compatibility, implementation and neighbourhood-based approaches.

On 28 May 2024, the revised EPBD officially entered into force. It obliges EU member states to transpose the directive into national law within two years. This requires further development of the national strategy for existing buildings, as well as adjustments to the Building Energy Act and funding structures.

Since 2024, this work has been continued in the follow-up project ‘Study on the implementation of the EPBD’. The focus is on scientific foundations and decision-making options for timely and ambitious national implementation. Particular attention is paid to technical and analytical preparatory work, supplemented by the consideration of additional requirements from the EED and RED III. The concepts developed should ensure technical and economic feasibility, contribute to climate neutrality and be socially acceptable and practical to implement. In addition, the report analyses the existing building stock and derives realistic target paths. Existing instruments will be reviewed, further developed and supplemented as necessary.

We will keep you informed here about the progress of the project