Building sector plan calls for solar on all new EU buildings

The European Parliament has adopted a proposed revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, setting a requirement for all new buildings in the bloc to be equipped with rooftop solar systems.

The draft measures were approved at a plenary session on Tuesday in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption in the European Union (EU) building sector by 2030 and make it climate neutral by 2050.

The directive calls for all new buildings to have solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays installed atop by 2028, where this is “technically suitable and economically feasible.” The goal is to make all new buildings zero-emission from 2028, while the deadline for new buildings occupied, operated or owned by public authorities is 2026.

Residential dwellings that are undergoing major renovations should have solar generation facilities by 2032.

The directive was adopted through a vote of 343-216, with 78 abstentions. Members of Parliament will now enter talks with the Council to agree on the final version of the bill.

According to the EC, buildings in the EU are responsible for 40% of the bloc’s energy consumption and 36% of greenhouse gas emissions. When presenting the REPowerEU Plan last year, the Commission pledged to make the installation of rooftop solar compulsory for all existing public and commercial buildings by 2027 and all new residential buildings by 2029.

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