A more energy-efficient building stock would help curb GHG emissions and energy consumption and support climate targets. Since 2021, all new buildings in the EU should reach the target nearly-zero energy building (or nZEB) standard, as defined by national governments. Moreover, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive is being revised to increase renovation rates, particularly for the worst-performing buildings in each country. The zero-emission building or ZEB requirement should apply from 2030 to all new buildings, and from 2027 to all new buildings occupied or owned by public authorities.
However, to have more nZEB and ZEB buildings, the construction workforce needs to have the skills and know-how to design, construct, renovate and maintain energy-efficient buildings. Yet, the sector is experiencing a skills gap. As owners of large buildings and employers, public authorities can support the upskilling of the construction workforce. By embedding criteria in tenders for nZEB building standards, certifications, qualifications, as well as on-site training clauses public buyers can encourage the market to develop (n)ZEB skills.
To help public authorities leverage their purchasing power, the EU-funded nZEB Ready project has developed a Public Procurement Guide. This step-by-step guide shows how public procurement can help stimulate demand for (n)ZEB construction skills, by highlighting requirements that can be implemented throughout the procurement process. The guide highlights examples from pilot projects and additional resources. This guide is complemented by a collection of 15 case studies that illustrate how public authorities from across Europe have procured the renovation and construction of nZEB buildings and the impact these projects had on the uptake of skills and know-how.
Discover the nZEB Ready procurement guide, and explore the 15 nZEB public procurement case studies.
Details
- Publication date
- 29 May 2024
- Author
- Directorate-General for Environment