New EU Energy Efficiency Law: Implications for New Residential Projects

At ENX it is not only our responsibility to help you get the best in your build, but also our passion. With the recent approval of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) by the EU, we will see a significant shift in how energy efficiency in residential and public buildings are regulated. This directive, which member states finalised in December, seeks to enhance energy efficiency across the board, potentially impacting the Building Energy Ratings (BERs) of many homes.

As Ireland's premier sustainable engineering company, ENX is here to help property owners and builders navigate these changes effectively.

Implications of the New Legislation

One of the key objectives is to achieve emission reductions of at least 60% in the building sector by 2030 compared to 2015 levels and to reach climate neutrality by 2050. This directive specifically impacts new residential projects, mandating higher standards for energy performance and sustainability.

New buildings will be required to meet zero-emission targets, which involve incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar photovoltaics and solar thermal technologies. Additionally, these buildings must be designed to be solar-ready, facilitating the future installation of solar technologies where technically and economically feasible.

The directive also emphasises the importance of digitalisation in the energy systems of buildings. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) will now include more detailed and reliable data, based on common criteria across the EU, ensuring greater comparability and transparency. This includes information on primary and final energy consumption, renewable energy production, greenhouse gas emissions, and indoor environmental quality.

One significant change is the new requirement to calculate the life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions of new buildings. This approach promotes a comprehensive assessment of a building's environmental impact over its entire lifespan, encouraging the adoption of circular economy principles. Factors such as building automation, shading, natural light, and design will also be considered under the new methodology.

Moreover, the directive aims to enhance fire safety, especially in buildings that incorporate new electrification technologies like heat pumps and solar installations. Member States are expected to address these new risks, and non-binding guidance for fire safety in car parks will be published by the Commission.

The directive also highlights the need for integrated district or neighbourhood approaches to energy efficiency. Pre-cabling and ducting for rapid deployment of recharging points for electric vehicles will be required, promoting sustainable mobility infrastructure.

Meeting Targets and Challenges

The revised EPBD sets ambitious targets for improving the energy performance of the worst-rated buildings. For non-residential public buildings, the directive mandates a minimum BER grade of E by 2027 and D by 2030. For residential properties, the state is directed to improve the average energy performance rating for the lowest-rated properties by 2035. These targets are essential for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions across the EU.

However, the implementation of these measures poses significant challenges. The changes to the BER model in Ireland, which will include a higher grade for zero-emission buildings, may cause existing ratings to drop. This potential drop in ratings necessitates that the government provide additional grant schemes and incentives to encourage property owners to undertake retrofitting and renovation projects. Without legal obligations for homeowners to retrofit, the state will need to extend financial support to achieve these ambitious targets.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is still assessing how these changes will impact existing BERs. The new directive includes recommendations for adopting a "common scale of energy performance classes" to ensure comparability across the EU. This common template will also include recommendations for property owners on how to improve their ratings, providing clear guidance on necessary upgrades.

In conclusion, the new EU energy efficiency law presents both opportunities and challenges for new residential projects. By setting higher standards for energy performance and sustainability, the directive aims to significantly reduce emissions and promote renewable energy integration. However, achieving these goals will require substantial investment and support from both the government and property owners. The SEAI and other stakeholders must work collaboratively to ensure a smooth transition to the new regulatory framework, ultimately benefiting the climate and the economy.

How ENX Can Help

At ENX, we offer a comprehensive range of services to assist property owners and builders in complying with these new regulations:

• Feasibility Reporting, Daylight, Overheating & Other Regulatory Requirements: We ensure your project meets all necessary standards using advanced dynamic modelling software.

• Site Services & Utilities Infrastructure: We manage applications for services like electricity, telecoms, gas, and public lighting, ensuring timely delivery and reducing project risks.

• Design and Construction Support: From concept design to commissioning oversight, we provide end-to-end solutions that ensure compliance and quality.

Partner with ENX to navigate these legislative changes confidently and achieve sustainable, energy-efficient properties. Our expertise and tailored solutions make us the ideal choice for meeting the new EU energy efficiency standards.

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