Renovation opportunities are nigh

The Energy Efficiency Directive requires every EU country to establish a long-term strategy for mobilising investment in the energy efficient renovation of their building stock, by 30 April 2014.

National governments are being urged to:

1. Build lasting partnerships with industry, academia, financial institutions, NGOs and other actors. Establish strategies that genuinely engage national stakeholders and those who must deliver on the ground.

2. Develop ambitious strategies supported by clear milestone aims; the technology exists and industry is ready to deliver, but long-term certainty is needed for the market.

3. Integrate societal benefits: national strategies are tools to enable our economies to reap the multiple economic, social and environmental benefits of energy efficient renovations.

James Drinkwater, Senior Policy Advisor of the Europe Regional Network, says: "Governments around Europe cannot afford to miss the chance to improve their economies and the lives of those who live, learn and work in Europe's buildings. They must seize this opportunity."