š Context and Authors
The publication titled "Improving Energy Efficiency in Housing: Why Evaluation Matters" is part of the "Evaluation Perspectives" series by the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB). This document was prepared by Horst Wattenbach, a Senior Evaluator at CEB, under the oversight of Elif Timur, the Head of the CEB Office of Evaluation. The CEB focuses on fostering sustainable development and enhancing social welfare across Europe, particularly in the context of pressing challenges such as the climate crisis and rising energy costs.
ā” Key Findings
Energy Efficiency and Climate Crisis
The report underscores the critical importance of enhancing energy efficiency in housing as a key strategy for combating the climate crisis and alleviating energy poverty. It highlights that energy shortages and soaring prices have intensified energy poverty, impacting over 50 million households across Europe. This context makes the need for effective energy solutions more urgent than ever.
šļø Deep Renovation Needs
A significant finding of the publication is the urgent requirement for deep renovations in the EU's residential building stock to meet climate objectives. Currently, only about 12% of buildings have undergone renovations that meet these targets, while a considerable 35% are rated poorly in energy performance. The report advocates for deep renovations as a means to achieve substantial energy savings and help lift individuals and families out of energy poverty.
š¶ Investment Needs
To attain high energy performance standards through deep renovations, substantial financial investments are necessary. According to the European Investment Bank, an estimated ā¬1.1 trillion is required for building rehabilitation to meet the EU's 2030 greenhouse gas reduction goals. This figure highlights the scale of investment needed to drive meaningful change in the housing sector.
š Benefits of Energy Efficiency
Investing in energy efficiency yields a multitude of benefits. These include reduced energy bills for households, improved comfort within buildings, increased property values, and significant contributions to climate change mitigation. On a societal level, the advantages extend to reduced air pollution, enhanced resource efficiency, and job creation, underscoring the far-reaching impacts of energy efficiency initiatives.
š Evaluation Role
The publication emphasizes the pivotal role of evaluation in ensuring that investments in energy efficiency are both cost-effective and capable of delivering the intended outcomes. It advocates for improved planning, selection, and monitoring of projects to maximize energy savings and other associated benefits. The need for rigorous evaluation processes is crucial for steering investments towards the most effective energy efficiency solutions.
š Publication Details
"Improving Energy Efficiency in Housing: Why Evaluation Matters" was published by the Council of Europe Development Bank in October 2024. The insights and recommendations provided in this report are essential for stakeholders across Europe who are committed to advancing sustainable housing solutions.