EPBD recast focuses on energy and fire safety

As reported by the Forum for European Electrics Domestic Safety (FEEDS), the official publication of the EPBD recast in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) on May 8, 2024, introduces new tools to help the EU achieve its climate neutrality goals within the built environment.

The main components of the recast focus on lowering energy bills, enhancing energy security, and boosting competitiveness.

Importantly, the new EPBD also includes several fire safety provisions, potentially integrating the FEEDS’ recommendations for domestic electrical safety.

The successful implementation of these provisions at the national level is crucial for delivering better living conditions, alleviating energy poverty, and improving the safety of buildings in Europe.

Effective implementation is the key to obtaining tangible results for European citizens.

FEEDS releases recommendations for electrical safety

To address the challenges posed by the EPBD recast, FEEDS has released recommendations to stakeholders, EU institutions, and Member States.

The document provides detailed guidance on integrating electrical safety into EPBD implementation guidelines.

Key areas include Energy Performance Certificates, one-stop shops, Renovation Passports, Digital Building Logbooks, and National Building Renovation Plans.

These recommendations aim to ensure that electrical safety is a priority in building renovations and improvements.

FEEDS highlights opportunities to enhance the safety of domestic electrical installations, contributing to safer and more energy-efficient buildings across the EU.

Importance of addressing fire safety risks

The electrification of buildings through heat pumps, solar installations, batteries, and recharging infrastructure introduces new fire safety risks.

EPBD Recital 36 emphasizes the need for Member States to address these risks as part of their national implementation plans.

Ciarán Cuffe, MEP, stated during the European Fire Week 2022: “The EPBD is now an essential part of the Fit for 55 package, but it wouldn’t make sense to improve the energy performance of a building while leaving us unsafe because of obsolete electrical installations and lack of proper fire safety features.”

Member States urged to enhance electrical inspections

Seán Kelly, MEP, highlighted the critical importance of fire safety in buildings during the European Fire Week 2023.

He noted that nearly 50% of domestic accidental fires have an electrical source, stressing the need for Member States to develop electrical inspection regimes and ensure that renovations integrate electrical safety checks.

Kelly said: “The safety of our citizens remains our highest priority, and this includes ensuring that energy-efficient buildings are also fire safe.”