Buildings are responsible for 40% of energy consumption in the European Union. Buildings actually contribute a great deal to energy consumption in the long run due to their long life cycle. Reducing energy consumption through appropriate building materials and the use of renewable sources in the building sector are important measures needed to reduce energy consumption.
To this end, all new buildings must meet the minimum energy efficiency requirements adapted to local conditions. Large-scale renovations of existing buildings, regardless of size, provide the opportunity to take measures to improve energy efficiency.
These measures are:
• definition of a general framework for the method of calculating the total energy efficiency of buildings.
• setting minimum energy efficiency requirements for all new buildings.
• setting minimum energy efficiency requirements for existing buildings and building units that are undergoing large-scale renovation.
• setting minimum energy efficiency requirements for building materials and other building components when retrofitted or replaced.
• the issuance of energy performance certificates for all new buildings and for all buildings that are rented or sold.
• the introduction of regular inspections of boiler heating systems and air conditioning systems.
• the establishment of requirements concerning the proper installation, adjustment and operation of technical systems that are installed in existing buildings or are being replaced or upgraded.
• the promotion of buildings with almost zero energy consumption.