The problem is so great that even numerous, new buildings are not able to reduce the deficit of energetically effective construction. Despite the fact that only 30,000 apartments (GUS data) were given back only in January and February 2025. In the light of the growing energy costs, the modernization of existing heating, refrigerated and sanitary installations in buildings becomes not an option, but a necessity today.
Currently, about 190 million buildings in the European Union are facilities with low energy efficiency. This situation is on the one hand a huge modernization challenge for member countries, and to the other – indicates significant potential in the field of energy saving. Most of these buildings will continue to be used in 2050, which improves their energy efficiency with a key element in the pursuit of climate neutrality.
– The transformation of existing building resources into climate neutral facilities requires the implementation of innovative, low -emission solutions at every stage of the modernization process – says Piotr Serafin, expert on installation systems, uponor. – Unfortunately, Poland is in the penultimate place among EU Member States in terms of the implementation of ecological innovationswhich further emphasizes the scale of challenges that our country faces – he adds.
However, as the Barometer of Healthy Buildings 2024, over 70 percent Polish buildings require renewal. In practice, this means the need to modernize millions of facilities – both residential and commercial – in the next two decades. What's more, according to the national scenario recommended in a long -term building renovation strategy, the average annual energy modernization rate should reach about 3.8 percent. This is nearly four times more than today.
Barriers on the road to modernization
Many investments encounter barriers such as high initial costs, lack of technical knowledge, a limited number of qualified contractors or complex procedures for obtaining financial support.
However, this problem does not occur only in Poland. As much as 85 percent buildings in the EU were built before 2000, of which 75 percent It is characterized by low energy efficiency. No wonder that the European Union in response to these challenges, among others She decided to amend the directive on the energy characteristics of buildings (EU 2024/1275).
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The new regulations entered into force on May 28, 2024 in all Member States and They are aimed at significantly increasing the pace of renovation of buildings – especially those with the worst energy parameters. The directive contributes to the achievement of the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the construction sector by at least 60 percent. until 2030 (compared to the level of 2015) and the achievement of the non -emission resource of buildings until 2050.
The key role of thermomodernization
For developers and owners of older buildings, the upcoming regulations mean much more than just replacement of window joinery or insulation of the facade.
– The key to success is thermomodernization. This is a series of works made to reduce heat loss and save more energy needed to heat the entire building. In addition to sealing the roof, the wall and windows are replaced with walls. Heaters can change, air conditioning is often installed in the apartments. Another task is full modernization or replacement of the heating system. Often, they are the most to determine the energy efficiency of the building, and thus – access to green financing, compliance with ESG criteria and readiness on the EU wave “Green compliance” – Expert explains.
In addition to EU directives in Poland, the government also adopted a “long -term strategy of renovation of buildings”, which sets the direction of modernization of existing facilities towards low -emission and energy efficiency. According to the adopted strategy, about 7.5 million thermomodernization investments are planned in Poland.
The importance of heating and refrigerated systems
The European Commission data shows that heating, cooling and heating of hot utility water is up to 80 percent. energy consumption in residential buildings in the EU. The investment in modern systems – like planes heating and refrigerated technologies – not only increases the comfort of residents, but also realistically translates into lower bills, a smaller carbon trace and a higher value of real estate on the market.
– Developers who will focus on the quality of the installation today will gain a competitive advantage tomorrow. In the face of the exacerbating standards and the growing pressure of investors, concern for energy efficiency ceases to be an option – it becomes a necessity – emphasizes Piotr Serafin.
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Modern installations are also a condition for access to green financing. More and more banks are addicted to preferential loans on energy efficiency indicators – not only the level of insulation, but also the efficiency of internal systems. Developers who want to build with a view to the future cannot focus only on the aesthetics or location of the investment. The quality of the installation becomes equally important – for both investors and end users.
Today, the transformation of the construction sector is a strategic challenge and a chance in one. Thanks to EU funds, the growing availability of technology and the growing market awareness, Poland has real potential to speed up modernization. The condition of success, however, will be effective cooperation of administration, the private sector, construction industry and residents. Because what was in the background so far is in the foreground – and can determine whether we will reach the goals of green order.
