Can every building be smart? We say absolutely yes! But…

Buildings account for 40% of energy consumption in the European Union, making the sector crucial for achieving Europe's climate goals. The revised 2024 Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) underscores the critical role of digitalisation in enhancing the energy performance of existing buildings. Beyond energy efficiency, smart technologies can also improve occupant health, well-being, and comfort.

While the EU Commission initiated early on the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) framework, practical tools, best practices, and actionable insights from the building sector are needed to inform policymakers and unlock the investments needed to meet EPBD targets. Hosted by the EU-funded Horizon projects SMARTeeSTORY, BuildOn, and REN+HOMES, this session explores innovative approaches to align building energy performance with the EU's decarbonisation objectives.

SMARTeeSTORY, a pioneer in applying the SRI in real-world scenarios of historical buildings, and BuildOn, focusing on cost-effective automation solutions, will showcase best practices, technological advancements, and policy integration strategies.

REN+HOMES will contribute to the discussion by highlighting their methodologies and recommendations for positive energy buildings. The session emphasises how leveraging digital solutions and user engagement can improve energy performance across diverse building types, in line with the EU's goals set out in the EPBD.