Around 40% of Europe’s energy consumption is in the building sector. It is believed however that by increasing energy efficiency, carbon dioxide emissions from buildings could be reduced by more than 20%, an improvement that will help the EU meet its Kyoto Protocol commitments.

The EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive was published in January 2003 following calls for a need to introduce specific measures in the building sector. Its overall objective is to 'promote the improvement of energy performance of buildings within the EU taking into account outdoor climatic and local conditions, as well as indoor climate requirements and cost-effectiveness.'

The directive’s measures for improving energy efficiency include certification schemes for all buildings, regular inspection and assessment of heating and cooling installations, and a method for calculating the energy performance of buildings.