People in four European countries, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy and Spain want to buy and rent energy-efficient homes, finds a YouGov survey which was commissioned by the European Climate Foundation.
The survey data show that renters and homeowners value energy-efficient properties not only because they cut energy bills but also because they are better for the environment. Furthermore, both agree that there is a need for a regulation that reduces the impact of buildings on the climate.
“This survey shows that energy efficiency is not just one of the tools in the decarbonisation kit, but a clear priority for citizens across Europe. Especially after the recent hike in energy prices, people are willing to renovate their homes, they just need the right technical and financial support”, said Monica Frassoni, President of the European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE).
“This is the perfect time for the EU and its Member States to accelerate the pace of renovations with ambitious legislation, including mandatory Minimum Energy Performance Standards, and adequate resources. The results will be great for citizens, the economy and the environment”, she added.
Sixty-four per cent of people surveyed highlighted that there are not enough energy-efficient properties available on the market that could meet their demand. Seventy-two per cent expressed their support for a policy that requires all newly built homes to be well insulated and with clean heating systems.
Two-thirds of respondents (66 per cent) said that they would like to see a law that requires existing homes to meet minimum energy standards and provide subsidies for affordable improvements. Eighty-five per cent of poll participants noted that Energy Performance Certificates are useful.
“We all know this needs to be the decade of building renovations in Europe. The fact that citizens are highly supportive of this agenda must be an inspiration for policymakers at the EU and national levels, starting from the revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive”, emphasised Harry Verhaar, Head of Global Public Affairs of Signify & Chairperson of EU-ASE.
“Businesses are ready to play their part and support the wave of high-quality renovations for all buildings. This will help Europe to deliver on its climate goals while providing more energy-efficient and comfortable homes, as well as public and private sector buildings”, he concluded.
