A new report from ECOFYS demonstrates categorically that the current EU rules on energy efficiency in buildings fall far short of unlocking the potential that exists for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from this sector. The current Directive on Energy Performance of Buildings leaves up to 90% of the potential emission savings untapped.
The report by Ecofys, not only shows that current EU legislation on buildings is falling far short of capturing the potential, but in addition explains where the gaps lie.
Small buildings:
The greatest potential for reducing emissions from buildings lies within existing buildings below 1 000 m2 (i.e. those outside the current Directive) – with mandatory rules being key to capture this potential, the current EU rules are clearly insufficient. Further action is needed such as extending the current Directive to include all existing residential buildings, EU wide minimum insulation standards and an agreed EU wide ceiling for VAT on energy efficient products of a maximum of 5%.
Cooling demand:
Increased incomes and heat waves are leading to major increases in the use of air-conditioning – this trend is likely to undermine the energy efficiency benefits gained elsewhere, if increased insulation levels and measures to reduce heat load are not implemented.
The evidence is striking that we need to accelerate our efforts to improve energy efficiency in buildings. We hope that the attached leaflet and Ecofys report will further explain the necessity for action and provide guidance on how we can move forward.
Eurima can provide you with further information on these issues. Visit the website www.eurima.org.
26.3.2004
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