Energy Performance of Buildings: hospitality sector needs support to apply the new legislation

On 7 December 2023, both the European Parliament and the Council of the EU reached an agreement on the revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).

The proposal, adopted by the Commission as part of the ‘Fit for 55’ package, proposes to define the tools needed to achieve a zero-emission building stock by 2050.

HOTREC fully supports the step-by-step approach regarding the Minimum Energy Performance Standards; the need for non-residential buildings to install solar energy only if technically suitable and economically and functionally feasible; the fact that Member States may adjust requirements for the number of bicycle parking spaces for specific categories of non-residential buildings that are not typically accessed by bicycles.

According to the proposal, charging stations will be mandatory in non-residential buildings. The amount of required recharging points is excessive and will lead to disproportionate costs especially in large parking spaces. We welcome the fact that charging stations can be replaced by ducting for at least 50% of the parking spaces.

The hospitality sector will need financial support to carry on the renovation measures foreseen in the Directive. The current state of play of Europe (high energy and food prices, inflation) does not allow for a different solution.