Energy efficiency

The energy efficiency of buildings is a topic of great importance for the European Union. For this reason, in 2018, the EU introduced a directive aimed at promoting the environmental sustainability and energy efficiency of buildings: the European Directive on the Energy Efficiency of Buildings, commonly known as the "European Green Homes Directive". In this article we will look at the main objectives of the directive and its implications for property owners across Europe.
1. What are the objectives of the European directive on energy efficiency?
The European Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) is a directive of the European Union which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy in the EU. The directive establishes binding targets for all Member States, including the obligation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20% by 2020 compared to 1990 levels, to use at least 20% renewable energy in total electricity generation and to reduce final primary energy consumption by at least 10%. The EED also introduces an energy performance mechanism for buildings, establishing that by 2021 all new buildings are compliant with the energy standards required by the EU.
2. How would the European directive work in Italy?
In Italy, the European directive on energy efficiency would have a significant impact on national policies, in particular on those relating to energy efficiency and the use of renewable sources. Most of the obligations set out in the directive should be applied through the adoption of a national plan that defines the targets to be achieved and the measures to be taken to do so. In particular, in Italy, the directive would provide for the obligation for building owners to make the building more efficient and to improve thermal insulation, as well as the replacement of inefficient systems with more energy efficient technologies.
3. Why would the approval of the European directive lead to the devaluation of Italian real estate assets?
The approval of the European Directive on Energy Efficiency would lead to a significant drop in the value of Italian real estate assets since many buildings would no longer be able to meet the requirements established by the directive. This would involve a costly investment in existing buildings to bring them up to the required standards. Furthermore, the Directive also provides for periodic monitoring of the energy efficiency of buildings, which would further affect the profitability of real estate investments.
4. What are the pros and cons of approving the European directive?
The pros of the approval of the European Energy Efficiency Directive are undeniable: it is an important measure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of renewable energies in the EU. Furthermore, once approved, the Directive would also contribute to the creation of new jobs in the construction sector and to the establishment of a more favorable climate for economic development in the Italian real estate sector. However, there are also some cons linked to the approval of the Directive: first of all, it could lead to a significant drop in the value of Italian real estate assets; moreover, the Directive would involve costly investments in technology and energy efficiency to comply with the legislation.

5. How can companies comply with the European directive?
Companies can comply with the European Energy Efficiency Directive by carrying out energy audits and identifying technical solutions to make buildings more energy efficient. Carrying out energy audits can lead to significant energy and financial savings as they identify areas or plants with high energy consumption and recommend targeted interventions to achieve greater energy savings. Companies can also take advantage of some state incentives aimed at promoting the energy efficiency of buildings such as tax bonuses and contributions to companies that invest in energy efficient technologies. The European Energy Efficiency of Buildings Directive, also known as the European Green Homes Directive, represents an important step forward in promoting a sustainable future. Thanks to this directive, buildings will be able to reduce CO2 emissions and consumers will be able to save up to 30% in energy costs. The directive also offers environmental, social and economic benefits that cannot be ignored. It is therefore undoubtedly a great opportunity for Europe and for the whole world.