The Deliverable “Policy Framework: An Overview of European Policies for Energy Efficiency in Historic Buildings” examines the relationship between energy efficiency policies and preserving historic buildings in Sweden, Spain, Poland, and the UK (Scotland). A study of literature was combined with 25 structured interviews of practitioners, public authorities, professional and private owners. Comprehending the opportunities and constraints within the current policy framework is vital for the project’s development. Therefore, this report serves as the initial stage in establishing the foundation for evaluating potential solutions that could be applied in our demonstration cases and, further, in building typologies examined in the project.
The report outlines the critical need for a balanced approach that harmonises energy efficiency measures with the preservation of cultural heritage. As Europe faces increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency, historic buildings present unique challenges due to their architectural significance and the constraints imposed by conservation regulations. These challenges, such as the need for specialised retrofitting techniques and the potential conflict between modern energy standards and historical authenticity, underscore the importance of a collaborative approach.
Policy commonalities and discrepancies
The document provides an overview of existing European policies that influence energy efficiency in historic buildings. It highlights various directives and regulations, such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the European Green Deal, which set ambitious targets for reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
It discusses how these policies are implemented at national and local levels, often resulting in a patchwork of regulations that complicate efforts to retrofit historic buildings. The regulations have certain commonalities. All four countries involve national and regional/local authorities in heritage protection. Spain and Poland recognise multiple levels, while Sweden’s County Boards are crucial in managing national heritage sites, and Historic Environment Scotland works alongside local governments. Each country uses a hierarchical system to protect heritage assets. Spain has assets of cultural interest and general inventories, while Poland uses the Monument to History status, Register of Monuments, and Monument Records. All countries allow for exemptions to energy efficiency standards in historic buildings, recognising the need to balance energy efficiency with heritage preservation.
There are also discrepancies, for example, in the degree of centralisation. Poland’s system is more regionally controlled, with Voivodeship Conservators holding significant power, while Scotland, Sweden, and Spain give more autonomy to local authorities. Flexibility also differentiates the countries. Spain offers significant flexibility through local laws, while Scotland and Sweden allow for adjustments to energy standards. Poland’s system is more rigid, with stricter conservator oversight.
Conlusions
One of the report’s key themes is the importance of stakeholder engagement. The interviews gathered insights on various stakeholders’ challenges and opportunities in implementing energy efficiency measures. The results of these interviews reveal a common sentiment: while there is a strong desire to improve energy efficiency, there is also a significant concern about the potential impact on buildings’ historical and architectural value. Some stakeholders expressed a need for more precise guidelines and best practices, which can help navigate the complexities of retrofitting historic structures without compromising their heritage value.
The report also addresses the role of funding and financial incentives in promoting energy efficiency in historic buildings. The authors stress the urgent need for more targeted financial support that recognises the unique challenges associated with historic buildings and encourages innovative retrofit solutions.
In addition to policy and funding considerations, the report highlights the importance of monitoring and evaluation in the context of energy efficiency retrofits. It discusses the need for robust data collection and analysis to assess the measures’ effectiveness and inform future policy development.
Overall, the report serves as a valuable resource for understanding the current landscape of European policies related to energy efficiency in historic buildings. It provides insights into the complexities of balancing energy performance with heritage preservation and underscores the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
Principal Author: Gustaf Leijonhufvud (Uppsala University)
Contributors: Krzysztof Barnaś, Kinga Racoń-Leja, Judyta Rduch, Filip Suchoń (Cracow University of Technology), Petra Eriksson (Uppsala University), Yann Grandgirard (Edinburgh World Heritage), Daniel Herrera (Institute for Renewable Energy, Eurac Research), Marta Romero (Agencia de Vivienda y Rehabilitación de Andalucía)