Linkedin picture provided by the European Comission
The Re-election of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission
On 18 July 2024, during the first plenary session of the newly elected European Parliament, Ursula von der Leyen gained the confidence of the Members of Parliament to be re-elected for a second term as European Commission President. Despite some defeatist rumours in the news, she was confirmed with 401 votes in favour and 284 against, while the necessary majority was 360 of the component members of the Hemicycle. Unfortunately, due to the secret ballot voting procedure designed for this type of election, it is impossible to tell who voted in favour or against specifically.
The European Commission's Political Priorities for the New Mandate (2024-2029)
Before the vote, President von der Leyen presented the European Commission's political priorities for the 2024-2029 mandate, which she reiterated in her speech before the European House of Democracy. Even though these priorities are somewhat abstract and need to be complemented by the yearly Commission's priorities, they provide useful insights into the direction the new leader of the Commission intends to pursue.
Advancing Sustainable Building Practices in Europe: A Comprehensive Approach
The European Commission's political guidelines for 2024-2029 emphasise a multifaceted approach to addressing the critical challenges within the building sector. These guidelines underscore the necessity of enhancing energy efficiency, decarbonising buildings, and ensuring high indoor air and environmental quality, aligning closely with the goals of the Federation of European Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Associations (REHVA).
Tackling the Housing Crisis
The European Affordable Housing Plan is a cornerstone of this initiative, responding to the dramatic rise in housing costs and the substantial investment gap in social and affordable housing. A Commissioner for Housing will oversee this ambitious plan, aiming to address structural drivers, develop a comprehensive strategy for housing construction, and provide essential technical assistance.
The plan includes collaboration with the European Investment Bank to establish a pan-European investment platform to attract private and public investment for affordable and sustainable housing. Immediate steps involve doubling cohesion policy investments in affordable housing to ensure the sector receives the necessary attention and resources (p. 1).
Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Decarbonisation
Energy efficiency and decarbonisation are pivotal in the Commission's vision for Europe's building sector. The guidelines emphasise significant investments in clean energy infrastructure and technologies, including renewables, low-carbon technologies, and enhanced grid infrastructure. These investments are crucial for reducing dependence on fossil fuels and moving towards a sustainable energy system (p. 0).
The Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act will support industries, particularly energy-intensive ones, by channelling investments into necessary infrastructure. This act facilitates the transition to a low-carbon economy, helping Europe stay on track with its ambitious climate goals (p. 3).
Investment and Innovation in Housing
Revised State aid rules will support measures for affordable, energy-efficient, and social housing, fostering innovation and investment in the housing sector. Additionally, the swift rollout of the Social Climate Fund will support renovations and ensure access to affordable, energy-efficient housing for all Europeans (p. 1).
The expansion of the New European Bauhaus initiative further underscores the commitment to sustainability. This initiative combines sustainability with inclusion and affordability, fostering creativity and innovation in the housing sector. By integrating these values, the New European Bauhaus aims to create living spaces that are environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and economically accessible (p. 1).
Aligning with REHVA's Goals
These initiatives resonate with REHVA's objectives of promoting sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, ensuring high indoor air quality, and improving environmental quality in the built environment. The focus on energy efficiency, decarbonisation, and affordable housing is crucial for achieving these goals. The comprehensive approach outlined in the political guidelines reflects a deep commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges within the building sector, paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive future for Europe.
In conclusion, the European Commission's political guidelines for 2024-2029 present a robust framework for advancing sustainable building practices across Europe. By focusing on affordable housing, energy efficiency, and decarbonisation, these guidelines align closely with REHVA's mission. The initiatives outlined promise to foster a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient built environment, benefiting both current and future generations.