REHVA is pleased to announce the launch of a joint publication with SHASE (the Society of Heating, Air-Conditioning and Sanitary Engineers of Japan). This collaborative document delivers a comprehensive comparative analysis of Zero Emission Building (ZEB) framework in the European Union and Japan, setting a milestone toward international harmonisation of energy performance standards in buildings.

The document examines the evolution of energy performance in buildings, focusing on the EU's transition from Nearly Zero Energy Buildings to Zero Emission Buildings under the 2024 recast of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), and Japan’s comprehensive ZEB classification system.

Despite regional differences, the report finds a strong alignment in underlying principles: both regions emphasise energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, and decarbonisation. However, notable differences remain in assessment methodologies, energy performance indicators, and calculation boundaries—making cross-regional benchmarking both important and challenging.