In Germany, there are approximately 1.9 million nonresidential buildings with a final energy consumption of 330 TWh. This means that nonresidential buildings account for 36 percent of the final energy consumption of all buildings, even though they make up only nine percent of the total building stock.

Energy efficiency and the digitalization of non-residential buildings play a key role in the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), which was revised in 2024. Particularly important provisions that must now be implemented by the federal government include:

• Introduction of minimum energy performance standards
• Advancing digitalization through the introduction of the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI), which identifies buildings’ capabilities in terms of energy efficiency and grid connectivity
• Introduction of a building database to enable targeted renovation measures and incentive programs aimed at achieving climate neutrality in the existing building stock
• Simplifying the generation of renewable energy on commercial properties
• Launching a renovation initiative for the public non-residential building stock
• Promoting effective indoor ventilation in non-residential buildings.

These measures are intended not only to advance energy efficiency and digitalization but also to strengthen the German building sector’s contribution to reducing CO2 emissions. The BDI views these changes as a significant step toward sustainable and future-oriented development in the non-residential building sector.

The implementation of the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) in Germany will also be a topic at the upcoming BDI discussion event “From Climate Protection Goals to Implementation” on June 27, 2024, 2:15–5:00 p.m., Maschinenraum (Zionskirchstraße 73a, 10119 Berlin). Mark your calendars today—an invitation will follow.