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Europe (English)

Building renovation: Committee wants many exceptions

Yesterday, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive passed the Parliament's Industry Committee. By 2030, existing buildings will have to meet minimum energy standards. However, almost a quarter of buildings is supposed to remain exempt from the renovation obligations for longer – it's just one of many loopholes.

By Manuel Berkel

Summit calls for simpler state aid procedures

The heads of state and government agree that the approval processes for state aid for climate-friendly technologies should become faster and more predictable. In this way, they want to preserve Europe's competitiveness. Initially, there will be no new EU funds for this purpose, but existing funds will be used more flexibly.

By Eric Bonse