The event focused on the role of heating and cooling in achieving the objectives of the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), highlighting both the policy framework and practical implementation examples. Participants discussed the opportunities associated with reducing fossil fuel dependency, improving energy efficiency, and deploying clean heating and cooling solutions across Europe.

Understanding the role of heating and cooling in the energy transition

The first session provided an overview of the current policy landscape and the importance of heating and cooling in Europe's energy transition. Introduced by the European Commission, discussions emphasised that heating and cooling account for a significant share of the EU’s energy consumption and remain reliant on fossil fuels, making their decarbonisation essential for improving energy security, affordability, climate resilience and indoor comfort.

The webinar also presented key recommendations from Efficient Buildings Europe’s EPBD Implementation Guide. The discussion highlighted the need to avoid new fossil fuel lock-in, strengthen coordination between EU and national legislation, and ensure that the workforce is equipped with the skills required to support the deployment of clean heating and cooling technologies. Examples of existing national measures and good practices demonstrate how Member States can support the transition through coherent policies, targeted financing and training programmes.

From policy to practice: real-world examples

The second session showcased practical examples illustrating how innovative heating and cooling solutions are already being deployed across Europe.

Carrier’s case study explored the renovation of a historic museum building in Madrid, where a modern heat pump system was integrated into a landmark cultural site while preserving operational continuity and maintaining strict indoor climate requirements. The project demonstrated how advanced heating and cooling technologies can significantly reduce energy consumption, operating costs, and carbon emissions, even in complex heritage buildings.

Participants also examined the role of local heat planning through the example of Mechelen’s Heat Plan. The presentation outlined how cities can combine strategic planning, stakeholder cooperation and innovative financing mechanisms to accelerate building decarbonisation. The approach includes district heating and cooling networks, neighbourhood-scale renovation programmes and the use of renewable and locally available heat sources such as aquathermal energy and wastewater heat recovery.

The discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration between public authorities, businesses, and citizens to deliver affordable, resilient, and low-carbon heating solutions.

Conclusions

The webinar underlined that decarbonising heating and cooling is essential for achieving Europe’s climate and energy objectives. While policy frameworks such as the EPBD provide important direction, successful implementation will depend on coordinated action across all levels of governance, adequate financing, workforce development, and the widespread deployment of technologies.

Through a combination of regulatory measures, innovative projects, and local leadership, Europe has significant opportunities to accelerate the transition towards cleaner, more efficient, and more resilient heating and cooling systems for buildings.

Check the video of the webinar here.