The EPBD IV aims to make buildings energy-efficient and emission-free by 2050 at the latest. This contributes to a built environment with lower energy costs and more comfort, without natural gas. The directive includes new requirements for new construction, sustainability of existing buildings, and an improved energy label.
New rules for buildings
The first part of the implementation of the EPBD IV currently under consultation leads to new rules regarding:
- the generation of solar energy on buildings
- charging stations and charging infrastructure at buildings
- smart control systems for energy management
- improved energy label
- inspections of building installations
To arrange this, the Decision on Building Environment, the Decision on Quality of Living Environment, and the Environmental Decision will be amended. The principle is to follow the European directive without additional national requirements on top.
When do the rules apply and what does that mean in practice?
The rules will be implemented gradually. The first rules will apply from May 29, 2026, such as for the improved energy label and for charging points in new construction or renovation of buildings. Energy labels must also be available during renovation or lease extension and must be displayed in public buildings. Monuments must also have an energy label when sold or rented. Smart control systems for energy management will be mandatory for more types of buildings. The existing inspections of installations will be abolished; a new approach with smart and digital meters will be introduced.
Other components will follow later: rules for creating sufficient charging stations at existing buildings will apply from 2027, and the rules for a certain amount of solar energy generation on existing buildings will apply from 2028, starting with government buildings larger than 2,000 m².
Research on regulatory pressure
Research indicates that the new requirements for charging infrastructure, smart control systems for energy management, and solar energy on roofs result in additional burdens for property owners. This varies by requirement and building type. The removal of inspection rules structurally reduces the burdens. The other new requirements, according to the research, do not lead to additional burdens.
Contribute through the internet consultation
Everyone can contribute and respond to the elaboration of the new rules of the draft decision until August 25, 2025.
For this, go to the consultation.