Green homes: infringement proceedings move forward – Italia faces the risk of sanctions
Brussels is asking our country to submit its national restructuring plan: two months to comply, after which the matter will be referred to the Court of Justice of the European Union
Italia is one of nine countries that have not yet submitted their national renovation plan, which is essential for the implementation of the Green Buildings Directive. This was announced by the European Commission, which has therefore decided to press ahead with infringement proceedings against Italia. The other eight countries are Belgium, the Czech Republic, Ireland, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Poland and Slovakia.
It should be borne in mind that by the end of 2025, our country was due to submit its national renovation plan, setting out how it would achieve the targets set by the directive. The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, in fact, aims to achieve a zero-emission building stock by 2050, with a series of interim targets for reducing energy consumption and improving energy efficiency. The final version of the plan must be finalised by the end of 2026.
Brussels is now urging the submission of the plans ‘without further delay’ within two months. Otherwise, it may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union. In the event of an adverse ruling, this could lead to a finding of infringement and subsequently to the imposition of sanctions. It should be noted that some major countries, such as France and Germany – which were the focus of Brussels’ previous letter – have since submitted their restructuring plans.
