Article 10 of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) establishes the solar mandate for buildings. In this context, Solar Heat Europe has published a guidance document aimed at EU Member States to ensure its effective and equitable transposition.

The document underscores the importance of treating all solar technologies—photovoltaic, thermal, and hybrid PVT—on an equal footing, highlighting the pivotal role of solar thermal energy in decarbonising the building sector. With over 11 million systems installed across Europe and a capacity of 41 GWth, solar thermal stands out as a mature, efficient, and locally manufactured solution capable of meeting up to 80% of a building’s energy needs, particularly for heating and domestic hot water.

The guidance outlines three technical approaches for national implementation: minimum coverage of energy needs, minimum generation capacity per square metre, and proportional rooftop use—taking into account the higher energy density of solar thermal compared to photovoltaics. It also calls for the integration of sustainability criteria in public procurement, the promotion of European-made technologies, and the establishment of fair financing mechanisms. Solar Heat Europe stresses that a fair and technology-neutral implementation of Article 10 will support the EU’s climate goals while boosting local industry, job creation, and energy security across the continent.