Until 4 June 2025, the European Commission held a public consultation on the upcoming Affordable Housing Plan, which aims to tackle the housing crisis affecting millions across the EU.
EFIEES responded to the consultation, calling for strong support for:
- Energy efficiency measures, which can serve as an economic buffer during energy crises. By improving insulation and enhancing the overall efficiency of buildings, households become less vulnerable to energy price volatility. This not only strengthens their economic resilience but also reduces dependence on (potentially imported) fossil fuels.
- Renovating the worst-performing buildings, which is essential to increasing the supply of quality housing. These renovations also improve living conditions, enhancing comfort and climate resilience for vulnerable households.
To effectively support energy efficiency as part of the solution to the housing crisis, the Plan should also encourage the use of Energy Performance Contracts in large condominiums and social housing. In addition, EFIEES believes in promoting new financial incentives and complementary measures (e.g. addressing the skills gap in the building sector).