European Cities are tasked with the twin challenges of addressing the climate crisis while maintaining affordable and secure housing.
This policy guide illustrates how cities can align their climate ambitions with social responsibility
while implementing the revised EPBD. Local renovation strategies should focus on the worst performing buildings and ensure that public and affordable housing lead by example. Drawing on structured stakeholder engagement, literature review, policy analysis, and illustrative urban case studies, this guide identifies both the opportunities and the socioeconomic challenges associated with implementing the EPBD at city level – particularly in the context of low-income households, marginalised groups, and under-resourced cities. Affordability can remain at the core, with policies to protect tenants, prevent “renoviction”, and guarantee the right to return after upgrades. Financing can be structured to reach vulnerable households, using a mix of European, national, regional, and private resources, while one-stop
shops and local intermediaries can simplify access and build trust.
