In a landmark move, the European Union has reached a provisional agreement to phase out fossil fuel boilers by 2040. This decision strengthens the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and represents a significant step towards the EU’s goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

The new deal includes several key provisions:

Zero emissions: All new buildings must have zero on-site emissions from fossil fuels starting in 2030. Publicly owned buildings must comply with this rule by 2028. This applies to all new buildings, including residential and non-residential structures.
Phase-out of fossil fuel boilers: Member states must implement specific measures to gradually phase out fossil fuel boilers by 2040. This will effectively ban the installation of new fossil fuel boilers by that date.
Subsidy restrictions: As of January 1, 2025, subsidies for the installation of fossil fuel boilers will be prohibited. This further incentivizes the adoption of renewable energy sources for heating.
Clear legal basis: The revised directive provides a clear legal framework for member states to set requirements for heat generators based on greenhouse gas emissions, fuel type, and the minimum share of renewable energy used for heating. This allows flexibility for individual states while ensuring progress toward the overall goal.

This agreement has been met with positive reactions from various stakeholders:

European Heat Pump Association: Secretary General Thomas Nowak praised the decision, stating that it “provides crucial clarity for consumers and charts the path for the heating sector.” He emphasized that this move makes investments in heat pump solutions a future-proof choice.
European Commission: The Commission highlighted the benefits of the revised directive, including supporting the decarbonization of buildings across the EU, boosting energy independence, and strengthening the business case for a cleaner buildings sector in the region.

The phase-out of fossil fuel boilers represents a significant shift towards a more sustainable future for the EU. This decision will have a substantial impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources for heating. It also sends a strong signal to the market, encouraging innovation and investment in clean heating technologies.

The implementation of the new EPBD will be crucial to ensure its success. Member states will need to develop concrete plans for phasing out fossil fuel boilers and providing support for the transition to renewable heating solutions. This includes measures such as awareness campaigns, financial incentives, and technical assistance for consumers and businesses.

Overall, the EU’s decision to phase out fossil fuel boilers is a bold and necessary step towards achieving its climate goals. This move will have a significant impact on the future of the heating sector and will contribute to a more sustainable and energy-independent Europe.

What is the EU policy on fossil fuels?

The EU’s policy on fossil fuels is multifaceted and evolving. Here are some key elements:

Overall goals:

Climate neutrality by 2050: The EU aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, which requires a significant reduction in fossil fuel use.
Energy independence: The EU seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuel imports, particularly from Russia, to enhance its energy security.
Air quality improvement: Fossil fuels contribute significantly to air pollution, and the EU is committed to improving air quality for its citizens.

Key policy instruments:

Fit for 55 packages: This ambitious package of legislation aims to reduce EU greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. It includes measures to reduce emissions from buildings, transport, and industry, many of which target fossil fuel use.
Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD): This directive sets minimum energy performance standards for buildings and requires member states to develop national plans for increasing the energy efficiency of their building stock. The revised EPBD includes provisions for phasing out fossil fuel boilers by 2040.
Renewable Energy Directive (RED): This directive sets binding targets for member states to increase their share of renewable energy in their energy mix. This incentivizes the production and use of renewable energy sources, which can displace fossil fuels.
EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS): This cap-and-trade system covers emissions from power plants and industrial facilities. It puts a price on carbon emissions, making fossil fuels less competitive by increasing their cost.
Green Taxonomy: This classification system defines which economic activities are considered environmentally sustainable. It aims to steer investment towards sustainable technologies and activities, including those that replace fossil fuels.