In the Tuscan city of Pistoia, where centuries of craftsmanship are reflected in historic façades, EBC took part in a high-level conference organised by CNA Toscana Centro to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the new Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).
EBC Secretary General Fernando Sigchoz Jiménez highlighted the most relevant concepts and provisions for construction SMEs and craft trades, as well as the level of ambition brought by the recast EPBD to the energy renovation market.
This event marked a confrontation of EU legislation with the national and local reality of energy efficiency and the green transition. The discussions revolved on the content of the Italian National Building Renovation Plans (NBRPs), a first draft being due formally by the end of 2025. The conversations also addressed one-stop shops, energy performance certificates, minimum energy performance standards, the gradual phase-out of fossil fuel boilers, or the integration of renewable technologies.
With a full house at the Pistoia city council, EBC outlined key SME priorities: a long term vision matching the 2050 outlook; reliable access to public and private finance; increased workforce training and the need of making the sector more attractive; effective and inclusive one-stop shops; or the importance of both deep and stage renovations.
The Italian “Superbonus” scheme was also mentioned as a driver of renovation activity and a lesson in unpredictability, with EBC stressing that Member states should ensure stability and continuity of incentives.
The conference also featured presentations on Tuscany’s energy efficiency landscape, tools to support condominium renovation, or innovation schemes and tools.
EBC welcomes this initiative as meeting local authorities and construction stakeholders provides a springboard for effective monitoring of the implementation of the EPBD.
