The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) now requires EU member states to renovate faster while prioritising the worst-performing buildings and providing stronger support to households facing energy poverty. The challenge now is making these requirements work in practice.

This report examines the gap between EU buildings policy and national implementation in Bulgaria, Hungary and Lithuania. Specifically, it looks at the challenges to delivering on policy requirements, which ultimately prevent renovation support from reaching the buildings and households that need it most. Its findings are relevant across the EU, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe.

The issues explored include how to identify vulnerable households and worst-performing buildings, involve local actors and affected communities in policymaking, and better connect building renovation with heating and cooling, renewable energy, and neighbourhood approaches.

It also looks at practical barriers that are often overlooked, from the specific needs of multi-family apartment buildings to the role of local resource centres (or one-stop shops) in helping households navigate the renovation process.

Based on these findings, the report presents 15 recommendations for national policymakers. Together, they point to practical ways of closing the gap between EU ambition and what happens on the ground.