On 28 May, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive finally entered into force.
Perfectly timing this piece of legislation, on the same day REHVA finished the drafting of its REHVA MANIFESTO For sustainable, healthy and affordable buildings - the “2050 ready building” pact. The document at hand emphasised the crucial role of buildings in achieving EU's 2050 carbon neutrality goals.
Key principles include:
- Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: Prioritise energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources.
- Decarbonised Systems: Implement decarbonised heating and cooling systems and use low carbon construction materials.
- Indoor Environmental Quality: Ensure high indoor environmental and air quality.
- Smart Buildings: Promote the digitalisation of buildings to enhance energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: Advocate for environmentally optimised, cost-effective technical solutions.
The manifesto highlights the need for a holistic approach, considering buildings as active energy producers equipped with smart technologies and energy storage systems, contributing to the decarbonisation of the energy sector. It calls for a unified European "common language" based on shared indicators for energy and indoor environment performance.
Health and Indoor Air Quality
In line with the manifesto's call for a holistic approach to building sustainability, prioritising buildings as active contributors to energy efficiency, improving indoor air quality (IAQ) becomes paramount. By implementing ambitious regulatory measures and updating ecodesign requirements, the EU can ensure healthier indoor environments.
Affordable Housing and Incentives
As buildings evolve into active energy producers, creating a sustainable future demands affordable renovation and incentivising energy-efficient practices. By providing property owners with technical support and financial incentives, the transition to greener buildings can be embraced by all, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable living environment.
Role of HVAC Professionals
With buildings at the forefront of the energy transition, HVAC professionals play a crucial role. Through continuous professional development and adherence to common EU standards, they can lead the charge towards energy efficiency and sustainability, ensuring buildings meet both energy and indoor environment performance criteria.
The Manifesto was then sent to the lead candidates of the main parties running for the next European Parliament elections to seek their endorsement and assess which parties are open to support REHVA's efforts for a healthier and more efficent type of EU.