Energy policy: energy performance of the buidings of the Union, energy saves and efficiency

Following the adoption of a series of amendments accepted at first reading, the Commission has re-drafted its original text. Amendments accepted by the Commission have been categorised as follows: 1. The first set are a number of new provisions and serve to improve the technical and financial definitions as well as adding balance and clarity. 2. The second set have been accepted in principle, with some minor redrafting. Generally speaking they are seen to improve consistency with other parts of the proposal or define more clearly certain conditions, limits or exceptions. 3. The third set refers to parts of amendments which offer additional value to content of the overall text. The Commission has redrafted its text to take the following points into account: - An improved definition of the concept of "cost effectiveness". - The encouragement of Member States to accept an incentive system and public subsidies to promote the implementation of energy performance certification. - A recital underlining the fact that passive cooling can make a major contribution to reducing energy use. - Encouraging the use of air-conditioning systems (EN832); - The adoption of a new methodology of calculation to technical progress and standardisation. It has been modified to reflect the need for regular revision of minimum standards. - The definition of the term "building" has been modified to include the word "structure". - The definition of "energy performance" has been strengthened. - A greater distinction to be made between existing and new buildings. - A new article proposing an evaluation by the committee of the 1000 m2 threshold after five years. - The launching of an information campaign. - The inclusion of sports facilities as important energy-using buildings. They will now be shown in a separate item in the Annex to the Directive.�