Titled ‘How to finance the European Union’s building decarbonisation plan’ the policy brief from Bruegel addresses the European Union's ambitious goal to drastically reduce emissions from building heating and cooling by 2030. 

To achieve this, the EU has introduced measures like strengthening emissions trading and setting energy consumption reduction targets under the Energy Performance Building Directive (EPBD). 

These policies aim to accelerate building renovations and promote clean heating technologies. The brief emphasises the need for significant investments, estimated at €150 billion annually, which could be partially offset through energy savings and funding mechanisms like grants and loans. 

These measures aim not only to achieve climate goals but also to combat energy poverty, particularly for vulnerable consumers who often live in poorly performing buildings. Successful implementation will enhance energy security and public health while reducing future government expenditures on energy assistance.