A Renovation Wave for Europe: Energy Efficiency for Whom?

The European Commission proposal for the Renovation Wave Strategy aims to trigger massive public and private buildings renovation in Europe to improve energy performance and thus contribute toward achieving climate neutrality. For FEANTSA (the European Federation of National Organizations Working with the Homeless), this initiative could provide an opportunity to support lowest-income groups in the energy transition and in doing so address housing exclusion. However, in its current form, the strategy does not clearly establish the necessary instruments and safeguards to ensure this renovation wave will benefit lowest-income groups, address housing exclusion, and avoid becoming an instrument of urban segregation (gentrification).

Read our statement, that includes six recommendations to deliver on the strategy’s stated ambition of addressing energy poverty, here.

If you'd like more information about the statement or the renovation wave contact Clotilde Clark-Foulquier.