How can Member States successfully introduce and scale Renovation Passports under the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive?
Renovation Passports (RPs) are among the new policy instruments introduced by the recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD 2024/1275). Designed to support step-by-step building renovation planning, they have the potential to become a key tool for accelerating deep renovation and guiding building owners towards long-term decarbonisation objectives.
This report examines the policy needs associated with implementing Renovation Passports across the six focus countries of the EPBD.wise project: Bulgaria, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Ukraine. Particular attention is given to Greece, Hungary, Romania and Ukraine, which identified Renovation Passports as a priority area requiring dedicated policy support and guidance.
The analysis builds on findings from previous European projects, national experiences, stakeholder consultations, surveys and literature reviews. It explores the challenges public authorities and policymakers are likely to face when introducing Renovation Passport schemes and identifies practical solutions to support successful implementation.
A central finding of the report is that simplicity, affordability and integration with existing systems will be critical for the success of Renovation Passports. Member States will need to ensure that the scheme does not create unnecessary administrative burdens while remaining accessible and affordable for building owners. Strong links with existing Energy Performance Certificate systems and other national renovation instruments will also be essential.
The report identifies a number of key policy priorities, including the need to improve data collection and quality-assurance processes, ensure interoperability between databases and digital building logbooks, strengthen knowledge of national building stocks, and establish support mechanisms, such as regional one-stop shops. The analysis also highlights the importance of linking Renovation Passports with financing opportunities, advisory services, and grant schemes to help building owners implement recommended renovation measures.
Communication and public awareness emerge as another critical success factor. Clear information campaigns and targeted outreach activities will be necessary to explain the purpose, benefits and practical value of Renovation Passports to building owners and other stakeholders.
Alongside the analysis of policy needs, the report presents a set of criteria for identifying and assessing examples of good practice. These examples provide practical insights into how specific implementation challenges can be addressed and offer valuable lessons for Member States developing their own Renovation Passport schemes.
As one of the first analytical outputs of the EPBD.wise project, the report establishes an important foundation for the development of future policy guidelines and tailored recommendations that will support the effective rollout of Renovation Passports across Europe.
Download the Report
