Five years since its introduction, the Fit for 55 package remains the cornerstone of the EU’s energy and climate policy. Its legislative pillars were designed to function together but identifying how they interact is crucial to the success of the package.

This latest report from the EPBD.wise project identifies where coherence is strong and where misalignments risk undermining decarbonisation ambitions, from data systems and renovation planning to fossil-fuel phase-out and social fairness provisions. As 2030 draws nearer, the report looks to inform the post-2030 energy and climate framework already in discussion at EU-level.  

The report’s key recommendations to support this approach are: 

Aligning renovation with spatial planning – National, regional and local authorities must co-create building renovation plans integrated with spatial planning tools.  

High-quality data systems – Interoperable databases, digital building logbooks and reliable EPCs are essential for monitoring, green finance and EU Taxonomy reporting.  

Energy efficiency first – Demand reduction measures must be consistently prioritised across all Fit for 55 instruments.  

Phasing out fossil fuels – Coordinated phase-out provisions across the EPBD, EED and RED steer buildings towards clean heating technologies.  

Scaling up renewables in buildings – The RED’s 49% renewables target, the EPBD solar mandate and zero-emission building requirements accelerate renewable energy deployment.  

Social fairness – Vulnerable and energy-poor households must be prioritised through targeted financial support, technical assistance and accessible renovation services.  

Updating the EU Taxonomy – Screening criteria must be revised to reflect zero-emission building standards and align investment incentives with current EPBD requirements.