Green Homes: These Families Will Have to Renovate
The Green Homes Directive: What It Means for Italian Families
The Green Homes Directive aims to have a zero-emission building stock by 2050, but how many families in Italy will need to renovate their homes? The harsh reality is that almost every homeowner will likely fall into the category of those who need to renovate soon.
The goal of achieving zero emissions by the mid-century set by the EU involves not only homes but also shops and offices.
Italy is one of the countries that will be most affected by the Green Homes Directive, as 60% of the buildings in our real estate market date back over 50 years.
This inevitably means that a large number of properties fall into the two worst energy classes, F and G.
Challenges and Requirements
To meet the EU’s set goal, homeowners will need to install solar panels on roofs, use induction plates, apply thermal insulation to buildings, replace fixtures, and install heat pumps.
According to national restructuring plans that Italy is required to prepare, almost all Italians will have to deal with these interventions.
Starting from 2030, new buildings will be required to have solar panels on their roofs, and by 2040 gas boilers must be decommissioned from all buildings.
These are costly interventions aimed at reducing emissions that pollute and contribute to climate change.
Energy Classes in Italy
Over 50% of Italian buildings fall into the two worst energy classes, with 29.3% in class G and 23.4% in class F.
These properties consume much more energy than those in higher energy classes, up to five times as much, impacting energy bills significantly.
These are the first homes that will need to be renovated, but many others will follow suit.
Around 70% of buildings will require renovations, leaving only 3 out of 10 families without the need to invest in the restructuring of their property.
Costs of Improving Energy Efficiency
The cost of improving energy efficiency can vary from building to building, with some requiring more extensive interventions than others.
On average, for a condominium, the cost approaches €600,000, while for single-family homes, it exceeds €110,000.
While the current superbonus scheme covers the full cost of renovations, future incentives might be directed only to those in economic need.
Those not meeting the economic criteria will have to start planning for renovation works, relying on financing options offered by banks.