EU

European emissions trading for buildings and transport: targeted support for vulnerable households

In 2027, a second European emissions trading system (ETS 2) will be introduced specifically for the buildings and transport sectors and small energy businesses. A new study by the Oeko-Institut and Forum Ökologisch-Soziale Marktwirtschaft (FÖS) looks at how this might affect Germany, how the revenues will be used and how vulnerable groups can best be supported. The existing national emissions trading system will transition to the new EU ETS 2.

Improving the energy performance of non-residential buildings

To meet European and national climate targets, EU Member States must transition their building stock to zero emissions by 2050. This entails shifting heating systems to renewable energy sources and improving the building’s energy efficiency through thermal retrofits. In December 2023, the EU agreed a revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) which introduces “Minimum Energy Performance Standards” (MEPS) for non-residential buildings. Under the revised EPBD, 16% of the worst-performing non-residential buildings will need to be renovated by 2030 and 26% by 2033. Non-residential buildings include schools, hospitals, offices and shops. They account for around 30% of the total floor area in the EU and 34% of the final energy demand for heating and hot water.

EU citizen assemblies call for more sufficiency in climate action plans

Expediting renewable energy development in Europe

Renewable energy development is essential for achieving climate targets, and high-quality solutions to many of the barriers to renewables expansion are already available. This is the conclusion drawn in a new study conducted by the Oeko-Institut, eclareon, WindEurope and SolarPower Europe on behalf of the European Commission.