A recent EU-wide survey has shed light on the growing role of one-stop-shops (OSS) in advancing residential energy efficiency. With 57 OSS and 19 support structures analysed, the report offers a detailed view of how these entities operate, their funding models, and their impact on renovation uptake. The findings underscore OSS as essential instruments in the EU’s strategy to decarbonise the building sector.

Most OSS operate at the regional level and are publicly led, with nearly three-quarters involving local or regional authorities. Their services range from energy audits and technical design to full renovation support. While 60% offer services free of charge, others rely on partial or full homeowner payments. EU funds remain the primary source of income, though many OSS report using multiple revenue streams to sustain operations.

The report reveals that OSS targeting deep energy renovations tend to be more operationally involved and offer direct financing options. However, conversion rates from initial advice to completed renovations remain modest, averaging just 16%. This suggests that while OSS are effective in outreach, further support is needed to translate interest into action, particularly for ambitious retrofit projects.

Despite their growing presence, OSS face challenges in national recognition and legislative support. Respondents rated their countries’ frameworks below 5 out of 10, indicating limited institutional backing. Nevertheless, with over 95,000 people advised and more than 14,000 homes renovated in 2023 alone, OSS demonstrates strong potential to accelerate energy efficiency across Europe—provided they receive the structural support required to scale.

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