The Directorate-General for Energy announces the publication of new rules defining a harmonised framework for calculating the life-cycle GWP of new buildings under the recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). The method covers greenhouse gas emissions associated with the full life-cycle, from production and transport of construction products and on-site activities to the use phase, replacement, demolition and end-of-life management, including reuse and recycling.

From 2028, life-cycle GWP will have to be calculated and disclosed in energy performance certificates for new buildings with a floor area above 1,000 m², extending to all new buildings in 2030. The framework is intended to encourage the use of low-carbon materials and practices, while ensuring comparability of results across Member States. Calculations will rely on default values set at national level and data supplied by manufacturers under existing EU product legislation. The delegated act is now subject to scrutiny by the Council and the European Parliament before it can enter into force.