The new Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) can pave the way for a safer built environment for generations to come

The official publication of the EPBD recast in the OJEU on May 8 2024 provides the EU with new tools to help achieve the EU’s climate neutrality goals within the built environment. While the main instrumental parts address lowering energy bills, enhancing energy security, and boosting competitiveness, improving living conditions is not forgotten: the new EBBD provides in particular several fire safety provisions which may include Forum for European Electrical Domestic Safety recommendations for domestic electrical safety.

But the key to obtain tangible results for Europe’s citizens is now its implementation at the national level: the only way that will really deliver better living conditions, alleviate energy poverty and improve the safety of our buildings.

To provide concrete answers to these challenges, FEEDS has released its recommendations to stakeholders, EU institutions and Member States. The document provides comprehensive explanations about where and how electrical safety can be integrated into EPBD implementation guidelines: Energy Performance Certificates, one-stop shops, Renovation Passport, Digital Building Logbook and of course National Building Renovation Plans (among others) are all opportunities to act in favour of better safety of domestic electrical installations.

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EPBD Recital 36

The electrification of buildings, such as through the deployment of heat pumps, solar installations, batteries and recharging infrastructure, brings along changed risks with regard to the fire safety of buildings, which need to be addressed by Member States

Ciarán Cuffe MEP during the European Fire Week 2022

“The EPBD is now an essential part of the Fit for 55 package but it wouldn’t make sense to improve the energy performance of a building while leaving us unsafe because of obsolete electrical installations and lack of proper fire safety features.”

Seán Kelly MEP during the European Fire Week 2023
“Fire safety is paramount importance in buildings. Nearly 50% of domestic accidental fires have an electrical source. The safety of our citizens remains our highest priority, and this includes ensuring that energy efficient buildings are also fire safe. Member States should have to develop electrical inspection regimes and ensure renovations that integrate electrical safety checks.”