The Energy Performance Renovation Passport for Buildings according to EU Directive 2024 1275

The Energy Performance Renovation Passport for Buildings and new developments in energy certificates

Energy efficiency in buildings is taking a quantum leap forward with the introduction of the Building Renovation Passport (BRP). This innovative tool is set to revolutionise the way we approach the energy renovation of our buildings. In this article, we will explore in detail what the BRP is, its benefits and how it integrates with current energy efficiency policies.

What is the Building Renovation Passport?

The Building Renovation Passport is a digital document that provides a customised roadmap for the comprehensive renovation of a specific building. Its main objective is to facilitate the transformation of existing buildings into zero-emission structures by 2050, aligning with the European Union's ambitious decarbonisation targets.

The introduction of the Renovation Passport

One of the most notable innovations of the Directive is the creation of the Renovation Passport, a tool that allows owners to plan for long-term energy improvements. Through the passport, a personalised roadmap is provided to carry out renovations in phases, according to the owner's resources and needs.

The passport not only assesses the building's energy status, but also suggests improvements that can be implemented progressively, providing estimates of cost, energy benefits and payback times. This makes it easier for owners to undertake more ambitious renovations and complete efficiency targets over time. As the renovation passport is a digital document it opens the door to a very interesting measure, the Digital Building Register, which through a digital repository would contain all building documentation in digital format.

• Basic building information: The renovation passport should include the current energy performance of the building, information on national minimum energy performance requirements and dates for the phase-out of fossil fuels.
• Renovation roadmap: A graphical representation of the renovation steps, explaining the optimal sequence of improvements. This allows renovations to be planned in a structured and efficient way.
• Description of measures per stage: For each stage, a detailed description of the proposed renovations, estimates of energy savings, greenhouse gas emission reductions, savings on energy bills and the energy efficiency class expected to be achieved after completion of each stage should be provided.
• Connection to renewable energy systems: The proportion of renewable energy generation and self-consumption expected to be achieved after the renovation should be indicated.
• Additional improvements: Information on how to improve the circularity of building materials and reduce greenhouse gas emissions over the whole life cycle of the building.
• Financing and technical assistance: Information on financing options available for the renovation and technical assistance services that can help owners to carry out the project.
• Possible annexes: The passport can also include an indicative timetable of stages, cost estimates, and descriptions of the materials and technologies to be used, such as access to the digital version of the passport, pre-registration of local professionals or information related to earthquake safety, among others available in Annex VIII of the Directive.

Key features of the BRP

• It is a voluntary instrument but actively promoted by EU member states.
• It offers a phased planning for energy renovation, allowing for a gradual and more affordable implementation.
• It complements and enhances the existing energy performance certificate.
• It provides a long-term vision of the necessary building improvements .

Implementation of the Building Renovation Passport

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) states that:

• Member states must introduce a renovation passport system by 29 May 2026.
• A common approach shall be applied in energy certification and in the preparation of EPBDs.
• The technicians preparing these documents must be accredited, qualified or certified specialists.

Benefits of the building renovation passport

1. Long-term planning: Allows owners and investors to plan renovation interventions in an optimal way.
2. Phased renovation: Facilitates in-depth renovation in phases, reducing initial costs and inconvenience for inhabitants.
3. Efficiency improvement: Provides a clear roadmap for improving the energy efficiency of the building.
4. Added value: Increases the value of the property by demonstrating its potential for energy improvement.
5. Awareness raising: Educates owners about the importance of energy efficiency and its benefits.

Relationship with the Energy Certificate

The BRP and the energy certificate are closely related, but have different functions:

1. Both assess the current energy efficiency of the building.
2. The BRP goes further, providing a detailed plan for improvements over time.
3. It is recommended that the same specialist prepares both documents to ensure consistency.

One of the most significant changes brought about by this Directive is the unification of the format and scale of energy certificates across the European Union. This allows for greater comparability between countries and a more accurate assessment of the energy performance of buildings. A deadline of 29 May 2026 is set for the implementation of the single model of energy performance certificate throughout the European Union.

The new energy certificates

The new energy certificates will be able to include more information:

The global warming potential (GWP) over the entire life cycle of a building indicates the building's overall contribution to climate change emissions, and includes greenhouse gas emissions embodied in building products and direct and indirect emissions from the use stage.

In addition, information may also be provided on whether the building has the capacity to react to external signals and adjust energy consumption; whether the heat distribution system inside the building can operate at low or more efficient temperature levels; if applicable, the contact details of the relevant one-stop-shop for renovation advice.

The energy performance certificate may also include some additional references. These may include whether the building has been assessed for smart applications. Also, where available, the value of this assessment can be included. In addition, it can be noted whether the building has a digital register.

These improvements aim to provide a more comprehensive assessment, not only of the building's energy efficiency, but also of its environmental impact.

Specific recommendations for energy improvements have also been added to the certificates. These detailed recommendations provide guidance to owners on how to improve the building's energy performance and reduce long-term costs.

The certificates remain mandatory for the sale or rental of buildings, and need to be visible in advertisements, ensuring that potential buyers or tenants are informed.

The future of energy efficiency in buildings

The Building Renovation Passport represents a significant step forward in combating climate change and improving energy efficiency in the building sector. Its implementation promises not only to reduce CO2 emissions, but also to improve the quality of life of occupants and reduce energy costs in the long term. For building professionals, such as building certifiers, the BRP is an opportunity to expand their services and further contribute to the transition towards a sustainable, zero-emission building stock.