The European Real Estate Forum – EREF

Climate and energy goals

KEY DRIVERS FOR EU ENERGY POLICY
The EU continues to focus on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and enhancing energy efficiency, while ensuring energy supply security and fostering sustainable economic growth, competitiveness, and job creation. Innovation, cost-effectiveness, and resource efficiency remain crucial in meeting these objectives.
Central to the EU’s efforts are its updated climate and energy targets, aiming for:
  • 55% GHG reduction by 2030 compared to 1990 levels
  • 32% increase in the share of renewable energy by 2030
  • 32.5% improvement in energy efficiency by 2030
The EU’s long-term vision extends further, aiming for climate neutrality by 2050, with a reduction of GHG emissions by 80-95% from 1990 levels.
Buildings have been identified as the largest energy consumer in Europe. Current legislation, such as the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive and the revised Energy Efficiency Directive, plays a pivotal role in reducing energy consumption in both new and existing buildings.
Several factors are influencing property and property investment, including:
  • The push towards “Zero-Emission Buildings” (ZEB) by 2050
  • Market-driven building certifications (e.g., BREEAM, LEED, DGNB, and HQE)
  • Climate-related challenges such as increased flood risks, global warming, and potential natural disasters
The most significant challenge lies in addressing the existing building stock, as most of today’s buildings will remain in use for decades. Given the central role buildings play in daily life and the long-term nature of property investment, members of the European Real Estate Forum are actively engaged in the ongoing debate. They strive to ensure that our built environment meets current needs while also being sustainable for future generations.