Assotermica reiterates that the 'Case Green' directive does not require the mandatory removal of existing boilers, even by 2040. The association welcomes the approval of the new Directive on Energy Performance of Buildings (EPBD), known as the “Green Homes Directive”, recognizing the building sector an enormous potential for efficiency and a fundamental role in decarbonization. Currently, European buildings contribute 40% of final energy consumption and are responsible for 36% of greenhouse gas emissions, mainly due to an outdated and 75% inefficient building stock.
The EPBD Directive assigns a central role to plant technologies, especially those that use renewable sources. It is important to underline that the Directive clearly distinguishes between energy carriers and appliances: starting from 2025, funding for fossil fuels will be stopped and, from 2040, their use will be gradually eliminated. However, it will also be possible to power appliances such as boilers with renewable gas.
The objectives for 2040 are ambitious but not binding: it will be up to Member States to define the targets for the use of renewable gas, while the industry, especially in Italy with an excellent production hub, will have to guide this transition to greener products. Hybrid technologies and gas heat pumps, explicitly mentioned in the EPBD, will play a priority role, together with solar energy, including thermal energy.
Assotermica understands the concerns of the Italian Government regarding the Directive, since such an ambitious path will require significant public and private investments. The association considers it a priority to define a sustainable incentive plan that involves citizens, businesses and managers to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, while maintaining the sustainability of public accounts.
Assotermica is working on a proposal in this regard, involving the political decision maker.