EC energy directive targets buildings

摘要

Barry Smith of the National Standards Authority of Ireland reports on the scope of the Building Energy Performance Directive and the development of related standards. Arising from the Kyoto protocol, the European Commission has set the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions as an important objective. The most significant greenhouse gas is carbon dioxide (CO_2), almost half of which derives from energy use in buildings. EU research has indicated that CO_2 emissions from buildings could be reduced by 22 per cent through improved energy efficiency. In 2000, the European Action Plan on Energy Efficiency indicated the need for specific measures in the building sector. In response, the Commission published the proposed Building Energy Performance Directive (EPBD) in May 2001. The European Parliament and Council adopted it on 16 December 2002. Upon its publication in the EU Official Journal on January 4, 2003, the directive became European Law.