Qualitative analysis of energy performance certificates across EU countries under the lenses of behavioural insights

Abstract

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is considered one of the key EU policy tools for promoting energy efficiency in the residential sector. Since the mandatory introduction, its impact on the real estate market was limited. The research hypothesis is that the framing of the information is an important determinant alongside quality assurance of the calculation method and the training of the energy experts. Therefore a qualitative and comparative analysis of certificates from 7 EU countries and 2 Regions was undertaken through the lenses of behavioural insights. The purpose of the EPC is to assess the current energy performance of the dwelling, compare it to the rest of the building stock and provide a series of recommendations for its improvement. The implication of three types of nudges was considered in order to translate these messages to the dwellers in an effective way.