Starting in 2030, all new buildings must meet the EU’s zero-emission requirements. Even before then, regulations will mandate solar panels, renovation of the worst-performing buildings, and, for certain properties, mandatory energy management systems. A gradual shift that will have a major impact—particularly on industrial properties.
Adapting properties to the new regulations requires thorough assessment, careful planning, and significant investment. At the same time, an increased focus on climate action can become a strategic opportunity for property managers and sustainability officers in the industrial sector. With a systematic and proactive approach, it is possible to prevent devaluation—and in doing so, strengthen market position.
Critical energy regulations for industrial companies
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) has been revised and significantly amended over the years. The new, clarified, and tightened rules for building energy performance affect the entire property sector—particularly industrial properties, as they introduce new energy and emission requirements for buildings. A key element is that from 2030, all new buildings must comply with the standards for Zero-Emission Buildings (ZEB), with very low energy consumption. To meet these requirements, operations must shift towards a higher share of renewable energy and a fossil-free building sector.
In line with ZEB requirements, solar panel installations will be mandatory for new and larger existing privately owned buildings—something that will strongly affect industrial facilities. The exact implementation in Sweden, as well as the details underlying the solar energy requirements, will be presented at a later stage.
The EPBD also includes Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for non-residential buildings. The EU directive stipulates that at least 16 percent of the worst-performing buildings must be renovated by 2030, and 26 percent by 2033, in order not to exceed a defined energy performance threshold. Industrial buildings classified as production areas may in some cases be exempt from MEPS, but offices, warehouses, and logistics facilities are generally always included.
Industrial companies with an annual energy consumption exceeding 85 TJ are also subject to the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED). Unlike the requirements for publicly owned properties, no specific energy-saving quota is regulated. However, private properties—including industrial facilities—may be required to carry out recurring energy audits and efficiency measures, as well as environmental reporting in accordance with EMAS, or to implement an energy management system. ISO 50001.
It is up to each member state to define in detail both the application and any possible exemptions in its national legislation. In Sweden, the government has tasked the National Board of Housing, Building and Planning (Boverket) with developing proposals for how the EPBD should be implemented in Swedish law. This includes methods, definitions, and the execution of requirements related to solar energy. Guidance on how the new regulations are to be applied will be published when the rules enter into force. The legislation must be in place no later than May 29, 2026.
A strategic opportunity, not just a cost
The transition will require both time and resources—not least through investments in more energy-efficient solutions. At the same time, it offers many industrial companies the opportunity to position themselves as leaders in climate and environmental performance.
The EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities is a classification system that helps companies and investors identify “environmentally sustainable” economic activities in order to make more sustainable investment decisions and avoid devaluation. Investments that meet certain technical criteria may provide access to green loans and lower capital costs. Energy performance thus becomes a matter of financing—rather than just a matter of cost.
For companies that meet the size criteria, the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) also applies—requiring the monitoring of energy data, emissions, and climate plans in line with ESRS standards. With CSRD/ESRS reporting, it becomes clear that sustainability efforts must be integrated into the entire business model. It is no longer just about measuring, but also about demonstrating that your company has a credible plan and the resources needed for the sustainability transition.
6 steps to focus on
- Conduct a strategic portfolio review
Analyze energy performance, the technical condition of the buildings, and the needs of operations/tenants. Identify which buildings risk falling under MEPS, and which may qualify under the EU Taxonomy criteria as well as potential green loans and lower capital costs. - Develop a solar energy plan
Inventory all roof areas and assess potential grid capacity. Calculate and plan for installations in line with the EPBD’s solar requirements and customers’ expectations for green electricity. - Plan for ZEB in new construction projects
Design new building projects to already meet the 2030 ZEB requirements. This way, you can avoid unnecessary redesign costs and strengthen the property’s value. - Identify savings measures and implement an energy management system
Map potential energy-saving actions that can increase cost efficiency. If energy consumption exceeds 85 TJ/year, carry out regular energy audits and consider an energy management system such as ISO 50001 to meet the EED requirements. - Follow up investments according to the EU Taxonomy
Ensure that all renovation and new construction projects are documented and meet the technical criteria set out in the regulations, in order to gain access to green loans and strengthen the company’s ESG profile. - Prepare CSRD reporting and data collection
Establish a process to collect and ensure the quality of energy and climate data for your properties, including Scope 1–3 emissions. Link the process to the company’s business and investment plans.
Climate and energy requirements will shape the property market over the coming decade. For industrial properties, it is largely about turning regulatory pressure into business value through smart investments, energy-efficient operations, and transparent reporting.
At Pythagoras, we place great emphasis on sustainability and smart energy solutions. That’s why it is important for us to provide strong digital support in our property management system—helping you meet new requirements for efficient operations and maintenance, reporting, and follow-up. Get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to tell you more. .
