Europe is at the forefront of global energy decarbonisation, with buildings forming a key pillar of this transition. They account for approximately 40% of the EU’s final energy consumption and contribute around 36% of energy-related emissions. Disturbingly, about 75% of European buildings suffer from poor energy performance and must be renovated by 2030.

Building renovation can no longer be viewed solely through an environmental lens; its social dimension is equally vital, particularly in promoting affordable and social housing and combating energy poverty.

Today, building renovation is part of broader infrastructure upgrade projects, with careful consideration given to heating systems and adaptations for extreme weather events like heat waves. These developments bring new challenges for local governments, which must adapt their skills, acquire new ones, and establish effective renovation policies that support affordable housing.

This report seeks to identify the essential skills that local governments require. It begins by assessing the principal challenges local authorities face in their building policies, then identifies specific obstacles and difficulties that necessitate the acquisition of new expertise. Finally, it concludes with a set of policy recommendations designed to help local governments navigate these challenges and better prepare for future demands.