EPBD Timeline for Real Estate: From Policy to Practice

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) is at the foundation of the European Union’s strategy to increase energy efficiency and sustainability within the built environment. The directive aligns with the EU’s broader climate goals, advancing both environmental performance and economic resilience across Member States. The latest update to the EPBD, adopted in 2024, reflects a significant push towards decarbonizing the built environment while ensuring compliance with stricter energy efficiency standards.

This publication explores the evolution of the EPBD, its implications for the real estate sector, and the practical steps required to translate policy into practice.

This paper was prepared by a dedicated working group on the EPBD comprises the European Public Real Estate Association (EPRA), the European Association for Investors in Non-Listed Real Estate Vehicles (INREV), and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

The EPBD Working Group is committed to discussing the forthcoming implementation of the EPBD within the broader context of EU initiatives, such as the EU Taxonomy, and national legislative developments. This collaborative effort aims to provide clarity, foster practical implementation, and share actionable insights on the legislative and practical implications of the EPBD for stakeholders in the real estate sector.