The Commission sets out how zero-emission building requirements will apply across the EU, outlining energy, emissions, and supply rules under the recast EPBD.
The European Commission has published guidance on the implementation of Zero‑Emission Buildings (ZEBs) under the recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) 2024/1275. The document explains how the new framework applies to both new and renovated buildings and outlines the conditions that will govern energy performance and emissions.
A ZEB is defined as a building with very high energy performance, requiring little energy, producing no carbon emissions from fossil fuels on the premises, and generating zero or very low operational greenhouse gas emissions. This definition establishes the basis for the technical and regulatory requirements set out in Article 11 of the Directive.
The guidance confirms that ZEBs must follow the updated calculation methodology in Annex I, which requires determining energy needs using monthly or hourly intervals and applying forward‑looking primary energy factors that reflect expected national energy mixes. It also reiterates that fossil‑fuel combustion on the premises is not permitted for any energy uses covered by the EPBD.
A key element of the ZEB framework is the requirement that total annual primary energy use must be fully covered by eligible sources. These include renewable energy generated on the premises or nearby, renewable energy supplied through renewable energy communities, energy from efficient district heating and cooling systems, or energy from carbon‑free sources such as renewables and nuclear. The guidance clarifies the definitions of on‑site and nearby renewable energy and explains the criteria that district heating systems must meet to qualify as efficient.
The document also explains how buildings may temporarily rely on non‑eligible energy sources, provided that this is compensated over the year through renewable energy produced on the premises and either exported to the grid or used for purposes outside the EPBD scope. This ensures that annual primary energy use remains fully aligned with the Directive’s requirements.
The document provides a clear basis for the practical implementation of ZEB standards as the Directive moves forward and offers a coherent framework for applying Zero‑Emission Building requirements across the EU, ensuring consistent rules on energy demand, emissions, and eligible energy supply.
