Welcome to the first newsletter of iEPB!

We're thrilled to introduce you to iEPB, a groundbreaking LIFE project dedicated to transforming the energy performance of buildings across the EU.

The mission at iEPB is to enhance the energy efficiency of the EU’s building stock by improving the synchronization between various Energy Performance Building (EPB) assessments. By aligning existing Energy Performance Certifications (EPC) with complementary tools such as the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) and energy renovation recommendations, iEPB aims to streamline and elevate the standards of sustainable building practices.

In this newsletter readers will find a comprehensive overview of the project, specifically to its actions, news and materials produced.

For example, over the past few months, a survey has been carried out to understand the needs of all parties involved in building energy performance evaluations. By involving EPBD implementing bodies, energy certifiers, product manufacturers and suppliers, and end-users from the three pilot ecosystems, the survey examined barriers to energy certification and explored potential solutions, finding out that common challenges such as lack of awareness, regulatory complexity, financial constraints, and a shortage of qualified personnel often hinder progress in energy certification an evaluation.

To drive meaningful change, a coordinated approach that engages policymakers, stakeholders, and industry players is essential. Key strategies to address these challenges include raising awareness, streamlining regulations, improving access to incentives, investing in capacity building, and fostering collaboration. 

The knowledge acquired has provided the foundation for starting the development of the various tools and outcomes that the project aims to achieve. Currently, the consortium is advancing in the development of the common data model. The SRI evaluation is already a part of the iEPB schema,which is in the process of implementing the building energy certification tools for the three pilot countries (Spain, Austria and the Netherlands).

As the coordinator Eva Lucas Segarra (Instituto Valenciano de la Edificacion) quotes:

“One of the key objectives of this project is to meet the real needs of all parties involved in energy certification to improve its implementation and effectiveness. Gathering their viewpoints, experience, and expectations is essential for the project's success.” 

Join us on this exciting journey as we work towards a more energy-efficient future. Stay tuned for updates, insights, and opportunities to get involved in this transformative project.