27/02/2026
๐ข Public buildings are at the heart of Europeโs energy transition โ and 2026 is a key milestone.
From 2026 onwards, EU countries must start implementing the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), accelerating the renovation of the worst-performing public buildings. The goal is clear: lower energy consumption, reduced energy dependency, improved comfort, and less energy poverty.
In the Mediterranean region, where public buildings often face high cooling demands and ageing infrastructure, energy renovation is not optional โ itโs essential. Measures such as better insulation, efficient heating and cooling systems, and on-site renewable solutions can dramatically improve performance and resilience.
Statistics based on Eurostat energy balances and the European Environment Agency Greenhouse Gas Inventory (2023) show that:
โก๏ธ around 40% of energy consumed in the EU is used in buildings
โก๏ธ around 50% of EU's gas consumption is attributable to buildings
โก๏ธ +/- 80% of energy used in EU homes is for heating, cooling and hot water
As Europe moves toward its 2030 and 2050 climate goals, building renovation is one of the most powerful tools we have โ and the Mediterranean must be part of this transformation.
๐ Read the full article here: https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/energy-efficiency/energy-performance-buildings/energy-performance-buildings-directive_en
Interreg NEXT MED Programme