A short introduction to the EPBD directives
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) was first introduced by the European Union in 2002 as part of its broader strategy to combat climate change and improve energy efficiency. It established minimum requirements for energy performance in both new and existing buildings and laid the groundwork for more sustainable construction practices.
Over the years, the EPBD has undergone several revisions to meet the EU’s evolving climate goals. A significant revision came in 2018, introducing measures such as the Smart Readiness Indicator and greater emphasis on building automation.
The latest and most ambitious update was formally adopted by the European Council and the European Commission in April 2024. This revision intensifies the directive's focus on decarbonizing the building sector and aligning it with the EU’s climate-neutrality goals for 2050.
Short summary of the latest updates
- Zero-emission buildings: By 2030, all new buildings must be zero-emission, and existing buildings must achieve zero emissions by 2050.
- Extended requirements for building automation and control systems (BACS): The scope of mandatory BACS installation in non-residential buildings will be expanded by the end of 2029, reducing the threshold to 70 kW of effective rated output (the existing threshold of 290 kW comes into effect at the end of 2024). This ensures efficient energy monitoring and optimization through automation and control.
- Focus on Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ): The latest revision emphasizes Indoor Environmental Quality, which includes factors affecting the health, comfort, and well-being of occupants. Smart technologies are crucial for effective IEQ monitoring and reporting through extended BACS capabilities.
- Minimum energy performance standards: The directive mandates specific energy performance levels. For non-residential buildings, 16% of the lowest-performing stock must be upgraded by 2030, and 26% by 2033.
- Smart readiness indicator: The EPBD includes a smart readiness indicator to measure how well buildings integrate smart technologies, including building automation systems, to optimize energy use and improve operations.
- Renovation passports: Renovation passports provide a tailored roadmap for improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings, helping building owners achieve the required standards over time.
- Solar energy requirements: The directive mandates the installation of solar panels on all new non-residential buildings larger than 250m² by 2026. Existing public buildings must follow by 2027, with gradual implementation for other buildings by
The impact of ISO 52120-1
ISO 52120-1, also known as, Energy performance of buildings – Contribution of building automation, controls, and building management, plays an important role in supporting the goals outlined in the EPBD. This standard replaces EN 15232-1 and provides the first internationally harmonized methodology to assess the energy performance impact of building automation and control system.
Towards a sustainable future using smart technologies
The revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), with a transposition deadline of May 20th 2026, establishes a robust framework for a more energy-efficient and sustainable building sector across Europe. The directive introduces ambitious energy performance standards aimed at reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency in both new and existing buildings.
One of the key factors in the updated EPBD is the integration of smart technologies, which have become essential for optimizing building operations. By enabling real-time energy monitoring, predictive maintenance, and seamless integration of renewable energy sources, these smart solutions ensure that buildings operate efficiently while enhancing occupant comfort.
More information:
Directive (EU) 2024/1275 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 April 2024
ISO 52120-1:2021