The Renovate Europe Campaign underscores the urgent need to prioritise energy efficiency in buildings as a cornerstone of the EU’s climate and economic strategy. With over 75% of Europe’s building stock deemed energy inefficient, deep renovation is essential to reduce emissions, lower energy demand, and improve living conditions across the continent.

Renovating buildings can cut energy use by up to 80%, significantly reducing utility bills for households, businesses, and public authorities. These improvements also enhance indoor comfort, health, and productivity. Yet, despite these benefits, the pace of renovation remains too slow, hindered by fragmented funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and a lack of skilled labour.

To accelerate progress, the campaign calls for a simplified and dedicated EU budget line for energy-efficient buildings in the next Multiannual Financial Framework. It also advocates for extending the Recovery and Resilience Facility, supporting National Building Renovation Plans, and ensuring that energy efficiency is mainstreamed across all relevant EU funding instruments.

Unlocking private finance is equally vital. Proposals such as European Renovation Loans and Mortgage Portfolio Standards aim to mobilise household equity and steer bank lending towards greener assets. Combined with improved access to EU funds and technical assistance, these measures could help deliver a future-proof, low-carbon building stock across Europe.