The new report from the Irish Green Building Council examines how Ireland can adapt the latest version of the European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) to its legal framework, with particular focus on Article 9.1, which introduces Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for non-residential buildings. The goal is clear: to reduce the energy consumption of the least efficient buildings and accelerate decarbonisation by 2050.

The challenge, however, is considerable. Ireland’s non-residential stock lacks reliable data: fewer than half of the buildings have energy certificates, and these reflect theoretical conditions rather than actual use. Participants in the workshop organised by the IGBC agreed that a combination of indicators (BER, metered consumption, and statistical sampling) is needed to identify the worst-performing buildings, and above all, an open national database that ensures transparency and allows for rigorous planning.

The urgency is underlined by strict deadlines: upgrading the worst-performing 16% of buildings before 2030, 26% before 2033, and setting a pathway towards zero-emission buildings by 2050. Yet without a robust package of technical and financial support, many SMEs and small property owners will be left behind. As one participant noted, 'it is not enough to set standards; the tools to meet them must be provided'. The conclusion is clear: if Ireland wants to transform its building stock without creating bottlenecks or unnecessary demolitions, it must combine firm regulation with effective communication, high-quality data, and real support for the sector.