The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive As of January 2006 all 25 EU countries plus Norway and Switzerland must follow the directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings. For decades building and calculation methods have varied considerably across Europe’s regions. The EU is seriously concerned about the fact that its dependence on energy imports will grow from 50% to 70%. The member states are now revising their building codes, setting stricter demands for new buildings – in some countries by up to 30%. The Directive is a first wake-up call for a slumbering building industry that is still not constructing buildings as energy efficiently as they could be. It means that:  Energy codes must be updated at least every 5 years. Previously it could take 10 or in some countries even 20 years between each update. All buildings that are constructed, rented, sold or have public access must have an energy certificate no older than 10 years. Buildings undergoing major modernisation must be brought up to the new energy efficiency standards. Countries like Germany, UK, Sweden, Norway and Denmark make this mandatory for all buildings and not just buildings larger than 1000 m2 as the EU prescribed minimum. Focus is put on the energy use of the entire building with improved calculation methods and better detection of energy loss. Boilers and air con systems must be inspected regularly.