In November 2008, the Commission adopted the proposal for a recast of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. Throughout 2009, the proposal has been going through the approval process of the European Parliament and Council. The recast proposal confirms the importance of effective implementation at the Member State level, the importance of Community-wide co-operation and the strong long-term commitment and role of the Commission itself to support such effective implementation.

As the November 2008 Commission Communication states, buildings have significant untapped potential for cost effective energy savings “which, if realized, would mean that in 2020 the EU will consume 11% less final energy”. The magnitude of the potential savings is such that every effort must be made to achieve it.

In April 2009, the European Parliament approved a series of amendments to the Commission proposal. Under the Swedish Presidency, starting in July 2009, Council has been developing its position on the recast proposal.

Trialogues – meetings between the Parliament, Council and Commission – started in September 2009 to negotiate an agreement. On 17th November, a political agreement was achieved.
 
Please, find here some further information on the EPBD recast:

• EU press release from 13 Nov 2009
• Major issues of the political agreement from 17 Nov 2009
• Proposal for a recast of the EPBD from 18 Nov 2009