Challenge

Across the European Union, the implementation of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) and the forthcoming Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) has been proven to be inconsistent and often ineffective. Many Member States are struggling to align their national building performance regulations with the upcoming recast of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). Specifically, there is a need for structured, evidence-based policymaking tools that can guide the integration of digital readiness into EPC frameworks. Furthermore, a lack of shared practical knowledge and methodological clarity limits countries’ ability to effectively design and implement policies that support the energy transition in buildings.

Solutions

The tunES project addresses these challenges by applying the European Commission’s Better Regulation Guidelines (BRG) to support national energy agencies in policy design and implementation. At the national level, seven participating energy agencies will develop tailored policy measure packages that are based on clear evidence, stakeholder input, and measurable impact. These packages will be created through a process that includes stakeholder engagement, surveys, interviews, policy option design, and impact assessments. On the EU level, tunES collaborates with the NextGenEPC and SRI clusters to co-create a shared and openly available EPC & SRI Practice Collection. This living document compiles and describes a wide range of practices trialled across Member States to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of EPCs and the deployment of SRI. Over time, this guide will be expanded to include detailed methodological instructions for designing suitable national policies aligned with the evolving EPBD. Other Member States are actively invited to follow the project, benefit from its tools, and receive guidance from the Technical Support Team.

Results

By equipping national agencies with the tools and knowledge to develop and assess policy packages in line with the Better Regulation Guidelines, tunES significantly enhances the quality and coherence of energy performance policy across Europe. The project supports faster and more coordinated implementation of Smart Readiness Indicators and strengthens the effectiveness of EPCs. It promotes a culture of evidence-based, stakeholder-inclusive policymaking and enables Member States to share experiences and replicate successful approaches. Ultimately, tunES accelerates the EU’s climate and digital transition in the buildings sector and fosters deeper cross-border collaboration.