Buildings & other construction works
26 June 2025
White Paper on Affordable, Sustainable Energy Transition and Building Renovation
Buildings & other construction works
26 June 2025
Building block 3: Enabling framework
Building block 4: Research, Innovation, Technology
Building block 5: Funding
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Analysis of key challenges and strategic actions linked to the EU’s energy transition.
Editorial team
European Commission
Topics
EU-27
Academic / Research and VET Institutions
Local Authorities
SMEs (a company with less than 250 employees)
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Transition Pathway Strategic Areas
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Building block 3: Enabling framework
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Building block 4: Research, Innovation, Technology
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Building block 5: Funding
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Building block 6: Towards a fair and safe built environment
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Bulding block 1: Competitiveness
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Bulding block 2: Skills and talent
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This White Paper outlines a strategic framework for achieving an energy transition through the renovation of existing buildings. With buildings responsible for approximately 40 % of energy consumption and 36 % of CO₂ emissions in the EU, renovation plays a key role in meeting climate targets and enhancing energy efficiency.
The importance of making energy renovation accessible to all, especially vulnerable households, is emphasised. Financial mechanisms, public-private partnerships, and innovative policy measures should be prioritised.
The paper also explores the integration of renewable energy sources and smart technologies in building upgrades to support decarbonisation and energy resilience. Furthermore, the paper addresses social, economic, and environmental co-benefits – such as improved indoor comfort, job creation, and reduced energy poverty. Stakeholder engagement, from local authorities to private sector actors, is crucial for correct implementation.
The White Paper is intended as a guide for policymakers, industry leaders, and communities towards the implementation of a just, inclusive, and climate-resilient built environment.
Urgent and coordinated actions are needed to scale up renovation efforts and unlock the full potential of buildings as a tool for the green transition.
#SustainableBuildings #GreenTransition #StrategicPlanning
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