Key new elements of the revised EPBD relating to HVAC sector
Article 2: Definitions
‘Zero-Emission Building’ (ZEB) is introduced as a new definition where a building with very high energy performance any energy needs are covered by renewable sources generated on-site. Requirements regarding total annual primary energy use for ZEBs are laid down in Annex III.
Article 6: Calculation of cost optimal minimum energy performance requirements
By 30 June 2026, the EC shall revise the comparative methodology framework for calculating cost-optimal levels of minimum energy performance requirements in existing buildings undergoing major renovation.
NEW Article 9: Minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for existing buildings
With the goal to transform the national building stock to zero-emission by 2050 a progressive MEPS timeline has been set for different types of buildings to be achieved in the coming decade.
NEW Article 10: Renovation Passport
A new article introduces the Renovation Passportas a document that provides a tailored roadmap for the renovation of a specific building in several steps. By 2023, the EC shall establish a common European framework in a delegated act.
Article 11: Technical building systems
MS shall require the installation of IAQ monitoring devices in new zero emission buildings and where technically & economically feasible, in existing buildings undergoing deep renovation as well.
Article 13: Smart readiness of buildings
By the end of 2025, EC shall publish a delegated and an implementing act on a common Union scheme for rating the smart readiness of non-residential buildings above 290 kW effective rated output.
NEW Article 15: Financial barriers
From 2027, MS shall not provide any financial incentives for the installation of fossil fuel boilers.
Articles 20-21: Inspections & reporting on heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems
HVAC systems with an effective rated output of more than 290 kW shall be inspected at least every 2 years.
Annex III: Zero-Emission Building Requirements
The first part of Annex III lays down the requirements for ZEBs, both new and renovated. Maximum thresholds are laid down, expressed in total annual primary energy use, per climatic zone and per different building types. In addition, ZEBs shall not cause on-site carbon emissions from fossil fuels.
REHVA comments & position on the EPBD recast (2021)
REHVA actively follows policy developments linked to buildings energy efficiency, in particular the EPBD. You can find our comments and position paper on the ongoing revision process in the section below. REHVA advocacy within the EPBD revision process mainly focuses on:
- Apply the holistic energy efficiency first principle, starting with energy savings in the building fabric, using efficient technical systems as heat pumps and renewable energies renewable energies as a following step to ensure the lowest possible energy use;
- Consider that buildings are no longer only energy consumers but also energy producers (“energy positive” buildings), mainly based on PV production which could be exported;
- Buildings exist to provide a comfortable environment for people and to protect them from different types of weather circumstances, meaning that the ‘energy efficiency first’ principle cannot apply without the clear setting of targets which aims to improve the IEQ and health requirements in buildings.
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