The European Union updated the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) in 2023, setting ambitious new targets for the 2025–2030 period. According to the European Commission, all new buildings must be zero-emission starting in 2030, while public buildings must comply as early as 2028.

In Romania, the transposition of these requirements began with amendments to Law 372/2005 and through updates under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) – Component C5. For existing buildings, staged renovation will become mandatory to improve energy efficiency, with the worst-performing buildings being addressed first. Eurostat estimates that over 60% of Romania’s housing stock currently falls within energy classes C–E.

Proposed measures include periodic energy audits, the implementation of smart energy management systems, and the ban on fossil fuel boilers in new buildings. These changes will have a significant impact not only on the construction market, but also on consumer behavior and energy consumption habits.

(Photo: Freepik)