On December 1, 2024, the new European Commission began its mandate for the 2024-2029 period. With a renewed focus on decarbonisation, housing, energy, and the building sector, the Commission’s political priorities and key appointments are set to influence REHVA’s work significantly.
The Commission’s strategic agenda emphasizes three overarching goals that are particularly relevant for REHVA:
A Free and Democratic Europe: Upholding European values and ensuring that these values are reflected both within the EU and on the global stage.
A Strong and Secure Europe: Enhancing EU security and resilience by ensuring coherent external actions, managing migration comprehensively, and strengthening defence mechanisms.
A Prosperous and Competitive Europe: Promoting a green and digital transition while bolstering EU competitiveness through innovation, research, and a business-friendly environment..
Relevant Commissioners and Portfolios for Energy
Key appointments in the new Commission reflect its priorities:
Teresa Ribera Rodríguez, Executive Vice-President for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: Overseeing decarbonisation and competitiveness efforts.
Wopke Hoekstra, Commissioner for Climate, Net Zero and Clean Growth: Leading climate initiatives and supporting industries in achieving net-zero targets.
Dan Jørgensen, Commissioner for Energy and Housing: Driving the energy transition and addressing housing affordability through sustainable practices.
Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and Circular Economy: Focusing on environmental resilience and circular economy practices.
Driving Competitiveness, Sustainability, and Housing Solutions for Europe's Future
Europe's economic strength lies in its history of industry, innovation, and adaptability, driven by its social market economy. However, challenges like unfair global competition, high energy costs, skill shortages, and supply chain vulnerabilities hinder competitiveness. To address these, Europe must accelerate its clean and digital transitions, leveraging investments like NextGenerationEU and fostering sovereignty. A new European Prosperity Plan will focus on simplifying business processes, advancing research and innovation, boosting productivity with digital tools, and tackling skill gaps to ensure sustainable growth and fairness.
Additionally, addressing the housing crisis is critical. Rising costs and insufficient affordable housing require urgent action. A European Affordable Housing Plan, supported by the Social Climate Fund and revised State aid rules, aims to boost investments in sustainable, energy-efficient housing and support inclusive urban development. The New European Bauhaus initiative will further promote sustainability, creativity, and inclusion in housing.
The Clean Industrial Deal emphasizes decarbonisation and industrial transformation to maintain climate ambitions while strengthening economic growth. This includes implementing the EU Green Deal, reducing emissions, and fostering competitive clean industries through investment in energy efficiency, renewable infrastructure, and innovative technologies.
Moving Forward
As highlighted during the REHVA Brussels Summit, the true enforcement mechanisms for directives tackling energy efficiency and decarbonisation in the building sector, such as the EPBD, lie within the market itself. By providing clarity and stability, these frameworks incentivise financial institutions to expand green financing mechanisms, creating a strong foundation for Europe’s climate ambitions. Enhancing energy efficiency in buildings offers broad benefits, from increasing market competitiveness and reducing energy costs to fostering healthier indoor environments and generating quality jobs across the EU.
As the EU strives to maintain its competitive edge while advancing green and digital transitions, REHVA’s role in promoting sustainable building practices will remain critical. Collaboration with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and financial institutions will ensure that the building sector contributes effectively to the Commission’s ambitious goals.