nZEB implementation process in existing buildings, limits and benefits
NEWS FROM EUROPE
03.06.2019
Written by Eurac Research
nZEB target sometimes results a complex theme difficult to achieve and manage, also in the operation phase. In order to understand and identify the state of the art of the nZEB target implementation in the renovation processes of existing buildings in CE countries, within eCentral project it has been made a survey.
Energy experts (54%), public authorities (27%) and building experts (13%), and others (NGO, no-profit organization, …) participated. As required by EPBD, nZEB objective was adopted by all Central European countries, for residential and non-residential buildings, in new or existing buildings[1]. 37% of the survey participants confirm to know national policies, energy performance requirements and minimum standards adopted to achieve the nZEB target in existing building in case of renovation, but more than half of the participants have no information (21%) or they don’t know (42%) nothing on this regard.
Starting from EPBD request, Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is one of the most important instrument at European level able to enhance the energy performance of the buildings. In fact, 96% of the participants know what an EPC is, and that it is mandatory in Central European countries. EPC is considered by 75% of participants as useful and easy-to-use instrument to understand the energy efficiency of a building, and an effective tool that can be used by non-professional users (46%).
Furthermore, the action considered more effective to boost the renovation of existing buildings are:
- the knowledge improvement of building workers, designers/construction professionals (architects, engineers…) and tenants
- the economic instruments (grants/subsidies, loans, tax incentives, energy efficiency obligations and white certificates) for investors/owners/tenants.
“Report on nZEB initiatives from the Central Europe region” gives an overview on national and international nZEB initiatives already implemented in CE countries to increase knowledge and capacity of public authorities supporting the building market to introduce the nZEB target.
[1] Deliverable D.T1.1.1 “Report on nZEB initiatives from the Central Europe region”
