Netherlands

In March 2020, the implementation of EPBD Directive 2018/844 came into effect, including requirements for charging infrastructure for electrical vehicles, the obligation to document the energy performance of technical building systems and changes to the inspection schemes for heating and air-conditioning systems, which have been included in the building regulations (Besluit bouwwerken leefomgeving).

As of 1 January 2021, energy performance requirements at NZEB-level are in place for new buildings (both residential and non-residential). On the same date a new energy performance calculation methodology was introduced, NTA 8800 (Nederlandse Technische Afspraak), applicable for all buildings both new and existing.

In June 2022, the Acceleration Programme on Sustainability Measures in the Built Environment (Beleidsprogramma Versnelling Verduurzaming Gebouwde Omgeving, PVGO) was introduced presenting a mix of policy instruments to improve the energy performance of the built environment addressing both the short term and the long term and a wide range of target groups. The PVGO covers a wide variety of instruments ranging from the National Insulation Programme to the Heat Fund, and from the introduction of the Renovation Standard for non-residential buildings to the Performance Agreement with housing associations.

As of 1 January 2023, office buildings need to have at least energy label C.

At the end of 2024, 5.6 million residential buildings (nearly 68% of the total residential building stock) and approximately 250.000 non-residential buildings (nearly 21% of the total stock) have a valid EPC registered. With the increasing number of EPCs, its importance has been growing in governmental policies as well as in strategies of market parties like banks and property owners.

The Netherlands is currently preparing the implementation of the recast Directive (EU) 2024/1275.