The first policy brief of the REHEATEAST project underlines the urgent need to accelerate and make fairer the modernisation of urban heating systems in Central and Eastern Europe. Heating represents more than 40% of the energy consumption of buildings in Europe, and, in many countries of the region, urban heating networks continue to rely on fossil fuels, increasing vulnerability to price volatility, the risk of energy poverty, and climate impacts.

Based on a consultation process with authorities, regulators, and experts from eight countries, the policy brief confirms a broad consensus on the essential role that urban heating will play in future energy systems. However, it also identifies persistent barriers, such as outdated regulatory frameworks, slow permitting procedures, difficulties in mobilising private investment, and insufficient coordination between local administrations, operators, and users.

The report proposes advancing towards long-term national strategies aligned with climate objectives, strengthening municipal planning, improving tariff transparency, and promoting greater consumer engagement. Effective implementation of these measures would help reduce the use of fossil fuels, improve affordability, and reinforce the resilience of the region’s urban heating systems.