Final Stakeholder Meeting Highlights the Future of Climate-Neutral Buildings
On 19 March 2026, stakeholders gathered for the final nZEBRA event, bringing together experts from academia, industry, and policy to discuss the future of energy-efficient and climate-neutral buildings.
The event opened with insights from Heidi Norrström concerning the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), which sets ambitious targets for building decarbonisation across Europe. With buildings accounting for around 40% of EU energy consumption and the majority being energy-inefficient, the need for large-scale renovation and innovation is more urgent than ever.
Discussions highlighted key regulatory changes, including:
- New requirements for zero-emission buildings
- Increased integration of renewable energy systems, such as solar PV
- Stronger emphasis on digitalisation, smart control systems, and lifecycle carbon assessment
Prof. Mohammadreza Aghaei also explored the energy transition in buildings, focusing on:
- Reducing dependence on fossil fuels
- Improving energy efficiency in existing building stock
- Integrating renewable energy, storage, and demand-side management
Innovative solutions such as smart buildings, energy flexibility, and grid interaction were presented by two industry professionals Christian Johansson from EVIA and Christer Kilersjö the CEO of Eksta Bostads AB as essential components of future energy systems. These approaches aim to optimise energy use, enhance comfort, and support the transition toward climate neutrality.
The meeting also showcased the broader impact of the nZEBRA project, including its training programme on nearly zero-energy buildings. The course equips professionals and students with skills in areas such as:
- Climate resilience and circular economy
- Life cycle assessment (LCA)
- Smart building technologies and energy systems integration
The event concluded with a panel discussion, highlighting the current global challenges in energy and reinforcing the importance of collaboration across sectors to accelerate the transition toward sustainable, energy-efficient buildings in Europe.
We would like to thank all speakers for their insighful presentations and all particiipants who contributed with their questions during the panel discussion.
Our next meeting is going to be once again in Halmstad for the final summer school. Stay tuned!
