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Energy efficiency in buildings remains one of the most underutilised yet impactful avenues for climate mitigation. Despite accounting for over a third of global energy-related CO₂ emissions, the sector has seen limited engagement with carbon markets. The introduction of Article 6 under the Paris Agreement presents a renewed opportunity to unlock climate finance for energy-saving interventions across the building lifecycle.

The report identifies the use phase of buildings—where heating, cooling, and electricity consumption dominate—as the most promising area for Article 6 engagement. Methodologies for retrofitting lighting, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, and appliances are well established, offering reliable monitoring and verification. However, barriers such as high upfront costs and split incentives between landlords and tenants continue to hinder investment, particularly in residential settings.

To address these challenges, the paper proposes a set of viability criteria: economic feasibility, additionality, MRV (monitoring, reporting, and verification) practicality, and scalability. Projects that combine energy efficiency with renewable energy or fuel switching—such as heat pump installations or smart building systems—are highlighted as particularly suitable for Article 6 crediting. Programmatic approaches, including bundling smaller interventions, are recommended to reduce transaction costs and improve replicability.

Ultimately, the white paper calls for an expansion of the methodological toolbox to better support energy efficiency in buildings. This includes simplified MRV for Article 6.2 projects, digital solutions for data collection, and clearer guidance on baselines for new developments. With the right frameworks in place, energy-efficient buildings could play a central role in achieving national climate targets and mobilising private investment through international carbon markets.