Euralarm has welcomed the position adopted by the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) on the revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) after long negotiations.

The compromise amendments contain significant changes and Euralarm especially welcomes recommendations to better address fire safety of buildings.

Better performance

Euralarm noted that better performing buildings also means safer and more secure buildings. It said that every year, EU countries experience major fires in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, taking lives of thousands of European citizens and creating considerable environmental damage – damage which can be avoided with the deployment of integrated fire safety and security technologies.

Better performing buildings also implies new technologies – such as Battery Energy Storage Systems – that can increase fire risk. Euralam said that significant changes in fire safety and security requirements are required and they must be carefully evaluated by qualified people and companies.

Incentivised approach

Beyond the recommendations proposed by the ITRE Committee, Euralarm has called on EU decision makers and Member States to create incentives for all renovated buildings to be fitted with the latest technologies in terms of fire safety and security.

The European Parliament will vote on the draft position during the 13-16 March plenary meeting, sealing the EP position for the following trialogue negotiations.

Euralarm said has full confidence in the European political institutions to take the right decisions which will strengthen the cohesion of the European Union, revive our economy, and ensure for all citizens a sustainable future, be it in terms of environment, energy, use of natural resources as well as safety and security.