Europe is in the midst of a comprehensive energy transition. One of the most significant changes comes through the updated Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) – a new EU regulation that will impose far stricter requirements for energy efficiency and local energy production in buildings.
A key element of the directive is the so-called EU Solar Rooftop Standard, which means that solar energy will gradually become a requirement for many types of buildings in Europe. The goal is simple: more energy should be produced where it is consumed.
For commercial buildings, this means that local energy production is practically moving from being an option to becoming an expectation.
Solar energy becomes standard for new commercial buildings
The new legislation entails that new commercial buildings and public buildings in the EU must install solar energy where technically and economically feasible.
For buildings where building applications are submitted from 2027, solar panel systems on roofs or facades will become a requirement if conditions are suitable. At the same time, existing buildings will also be covered by the regulations. If a commercial building undergoes major rehabilitation or roof work after 2028, it will in many cases be a requirement to install solar energy simultaneously.
This marks a clear shift in European building policy. Buildings should no longer just be energy-efficient – they should also produce energy.
What does this mean for Norway?
Although Norway is not a member of the EU, many European regulations are introduced through the EEA Agreement. There is therefore a broad expectation that the main principles of the new EPBD legislation will also be introduced into Norwegian regulations in the coming years.
The timeline may be somewhat delayed compared to EU countries, but the direction is clear: in Norway too, the requirements for energy efficiency and local energy production in buildings will become stricter.
For property developers, real estate companies, and businesses with larger buildings, this means that energy production on roofs must increasingly be planned as part of construction projects and rehabilitations.
A great potential in commercial buildings
The background for the legislative change is climate, energy security, and economy. Buildings account for around 40 percent of energy consumption in the EU, and the building sector is therefore one of the most important areas in the energy transition.
At the same time, many commercial buildings have large roof areas that are very well suited for energy production. Warehouses, industrial buildings, shopping centers, and office buildings represent significant potential for local electricity production.
When energy is produced where it is used, businesses can reduce energy costs, strengthen energy security, and contribute to a more robust energy supply.
A new standard for future buildings
The new EU legislation makes one thing clear: future buildings will not only be energy-efficient – they will also be energy producers.
Even if the requirements are first introduced in the EU, developments clearly indicate that similar rules will also become part of Norwegian building regulations through the EEA cooperation.
For owners of commercial buildings, it may therefore be wise to start planning now.
Solar on the roof is in the process of moving from being an environmental measure to becoming a new standard for modern buildings in Europe – and eventually in Norway too.