The introduction of new energy-efficiency regulations in Greece, including Crete, has significantly influenced the construction sector, transforming how buildings are designed, built, and operated.
The Energy-Efficiency Regulations in Greece have introduced sweeping changes in the construction industry, particularly in Crete, where sustainability is becoming an integral part of the building process. These regulations, aligned with the European Union’s directives on energy efficiency and carbon reduction, are reshaping how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated.
Stricter Energy Performance Standards
According to the updated Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy guidelines, new buildings must now meet or exceed minimum energy performance standards. In Crete, this has led to the widespread use of energy-efficient materials, such as advanced insulation, double-glazed windows, and energy-saving roofing systems that reduce heat transfer. Builders are required to prioritize materials that minimize energy consumption to comply with these regulations.
Implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) in Greece
The responsibility for implementing the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) in Greece falls under the Ministry of Environment and Energy (YPEN). In February 2013, the Greek Parliament approved the adoption of Directive 2010/31/EU through Law 4122/2013, establishing a legal framework for energy performance in buildings.
In 2018, Directive 844/2018/EU, which updates and amends the original directive, was introduced. This directive is expected to be fully transposed into Greek law by the first trimester of 2020, further aligning Greece with EU energy efficiency goals.
Additionally, Law 4342/2015 transposed the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) into Greek legislation. A key provision of this law requires that 3% of the total floor area of public buildings, which are either heated or cooled, be renovated annually to meet minimum energy performance standards. This requirement will be incorporated into the new law as set out by Directive 844/2018/EU.
The national building code, known as the Regulation on the Energy Performance of Buildings (KENAK), was updated in July 2017 via Ministerial Decision DEPEA/oik. 178581 (GoG B’ 2367/12.07.2017), following a cost-optimal study. In November 2017, additional Technical Guidelines were approved through Ministerial Decision DEPEA/oik. 182365 (GoG B’ 4003/17.11.2017), further clarifying energy performance standards for buildings.
In August 2018, Greece issued its national plan for increasing the number of nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEBs). According to this plan, new buildings must meet at least Energy class A to be classified as nZEBs, while existing buildings must reach at least Energy class B+. However, a final decision regarding the minimum share of renewable energy sources (RES) and how they contribute to primary energy consumption is still pending.
A building permit is a government authorization that allows you to commence construction, renovate, or alter a property. In Greece, a building permit is mandatory for any project, regardless of its scale. The permit ensures compliance with zoning laws, building codes, and environmental regulations.
After 31 December 2023, all buildings housing public authorities must be classified under energy category B or higher on the basis of the EPC.
– Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy
Nearly Net-Zero Buildings
Enforcing energy-related requirements during the design or retrofit phase of a building is crucial for driving the adoption of energy efficiency measures in the building sector. These regulations, embedded in strong building energy codes, not only offer substantial CO2 emissions reductions and lower energy bills, but also enhance occupant comfort, create new employment opportunities, and boost energy security.
Implementing these codes ensures that buildings operate at optimal energy performance, contributing to sustainable urban development. Additionally, energy-efficient buildings require less heating and cooling, which is particularly beneficial in regions with extreme climates, such as Crete, where summer cooling demands are high.
To fully leverage the benefits of energy efficiency regulations in Greece, it is essential to continuously monitor and evaluate the latest developments in building codes at national, regional, and local levels. Regular updates to these codes reflect technological advancements and evolving environmental goals, enabling stakeholders in the construction and real estate sectors to comply with the most current standards. By staying informed, builders and property developers can ensure their projects not only meet energy-efficiency regulations but also achieve sustainability certifications like nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEBs).
The impact of updated building codes goes beyond environmental benefits. By complying with the latest standards, developers can offer properties that are more attractive to buyers or tenants, as energy-efficient buildings increasingly hold higher market value. Moreover, strong enforcement of these requirements during both the design and retrofit phases promotes long-term savings for property owners and contributes to the country’s overall energy transition.
Understanding the importance of energy-related requirements and building codes and their enforcement remains vital for ensuring that the construction sector in Greece and beyond continues to make significant strides toward sustainability, energy savings, and climate change mitigation.
Performance-Based Requirements in Building Codes in Greece
In Greece, a significant portion of the existing building stock was constructed before the 1960s, when energy codes were minimal. The oil crisis of the 1970s led many European countries to introduce thermal performance requirements in building codes, a trend that Greece also adopted later. Today, new residential buildings in Europe consume about 60% less energy on average than those built before the mid-1970s, highlighting the importance of enforcing energy-related requirements during renovations, especially in regions like Crete.
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), enacted in 2002, marked a shift from prescriptive regulations to performance-based approaches in building codes. Most countries, including Greece, have adopted national methodologies that establish performance-based requirements for new buildings, ensuring compliance with stringent energy efficiency standards.
In countries with existing prescriptive requirements before 2002, a holistic approach has resulted in tighter regulations for single-building elements. In Greece, ongoing energy efficiency regulations have led to various methodologies for assessing energy performance, with legally binding targets typically expressed in kWh/m²a or as percentage improvements compared to reference buildings.
Most methodologies are implemented through software programs, although software quality assurance is conducted in only about half of the countries, including Greece. Approximately 50% of member states have introduced changes to tighten requirements, align with CEN standards, or incorporate new technologies.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency Regulations | Enforced by the EPBD, focusing on improving thermal performance in buildings. |
| Building Age Impact | Approximately 40% of buildings were constructed before the 1960s, leading to lower energy performance. |
| Energy Consumption Reduction | New residential buildings consume about 60% less energy on average than those built before the mid-1970s. |
| Performance-Based Approach | Shift from prescriptive to performance-based requirements following the EPBD’s implementation in 2002. |
| Regulatory Framework | National building codes include legally binding performance targets based on primary energy requirements. |
| Software Methodologies | Most calculation procedures are conducted via software, with varying degrees of accreditation across countries. |
| Compliance and Monitoring | Continuous evaluation of energy performance regulations at national, regional, and local levels is crucial for effective implementation. |
Building Permission Application and Construction Supervision in Crete.
Advancing Sustainability through Energy-Efficiency Regulations in Greece
The implementation of Energy-Efficiency Regulations in Greece, particularly through the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), represents a significant shift towards sustainable construction practices. These regulations mandate enhancements in building thermal performance, encouraging the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy systems. This approach not only aims to reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions but also enhances the overall comfort and livability of residential spaces.
Moreover, the successful enforcement of these energy performance regulations hinges on continuous monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and public awareness initiatives. By fostering collaboration among government agencies, architects, and builders, Greece can ensure compliance and achieve its ambitious sustainability goals. The ongoing evolution of these regulations reflects the country’s commitment to a greener future, emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency in mitigating climate change and promoting economic resilience.
For more insights, refer to the paper Energy Performance of buildings—EPBD in Greece.
Impact of Revised Energy Performance Regulations on Construction
The European Council has reached a significant agreement on revising the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), with ambitious objectives aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in construction across Europe. The main goals of this revision include establishing that all new buildings must be zero-emission by 2030 and transitioning existing buildings to zero-emission status by 2050. This strategic move reflects a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable development in the construction sector.
For new buildings, the regulations stipulate that all public buildings must meet zero-emission standards by 2028, with the broader goal of applying this requirement to all new constructions by 2030. However, exceptions will be made for specific types of buildings, including historical sites and structures used for defense purposes. For existing buildings, member states are tasked with implementing minimum energy performance standards based on the maximum allowable primary energy consumption per square meter annually. This initiative aims to phase out poorly performing buildings and promote continuous improvements in the national building stock.
The new directives also introduce minimum energy performance standards for residential buildings, setting targets for reducing average primary energy use by 2033 and 2040, eventually leading to a zero-emission building stock by 2050. Additionally, the introduction of new energy performance certificate categories, such as “A0” for zero-emission buildings, further incentivizes sustainable practices in construction. Member states are encouraged to optimize solar energy generation potential in new buildings and to deploy sustainable mobility infrastructure, like electric vehicle charging points(GLI) .
The Revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive
(EPBD) is pivotal for boosting energy efficiency in construction. Key objectives include making all new buildings zero-emission by 2030 and transitioning existing buildings to zero-emission status by 2050. Public buildings must meet zero-emission standards by 2028, with minimum energy performance standards set for existing buildings to eliminate the least efficient ones.
Key Points
- All new buildings to be zero-emission by 2030; and public buildings by 2028.
- Minimum energy performance standards for existing buildings to phase out poor performers.
- Introduction of new energy performance certificate categories, including “A0” for zero-emission buildings.
- Emphasis on optimizing solar energy generation in new constructions.
- Requirement for sustainable mobility infrastructure, including electric vehicle charging points.
