This report examines the implementation of Article 9, focusing on minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for non-residential buildings and the pathways for progressive renovation of residential buildings.

It provides a detailed analysis of the policy needs for the EPBD.wise focus countries (Bulgaria, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Ukraine) to effectively implement Article 9. Additionally, it offers a thorough overview of both the successes and challenges faced in current best practices across EU countries.

The report is organised into two main sections. The first involves identifying the policy needs of the focus countries through questionnaires, bilateral discussions, and roundtable sessions with national stakeholders from the buildings sector, as well as insights from other relevant projects and studies. The second section includes desk research to find examples of good practices from countries that have successfully implemented measures related to Article 9, in both residential and non-residential sectors.

In detailing Article 9, EPBD.wise has identified five key policy needs that must be strategically addressed for effective national implementation:

1. Improved availability and understanding of building stock data, particularly for the non-residential sector
2. Support in defining and identifying the worst-performing buildings
3. Identification of investment needs, budgetary resources, and strategies to leverage private investments
4. Development of enabling frameworks, such as energy performance certificates (EPCs), renovation passports (RPs), and the training of a qualified workforce
5. Ensuring compliance and quality in renovations

It is important to note that this report does not provide recommendations. Instead, it focuses on identifying and compiling the policy needs that will inform tailored recommendations in the next stages of the project. In its subsequent phase, EPBD.wise will develop strategies for the progressive renovation of the residential building stock.