Webinar: The EU’s path forward for one-stop shops

As the European Union progresses toward its climate and energy goals, two pivotal legislative instruments—the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED)—are poised to significantly shape the development and operation of one-stop shops (OSS) across Europe. These Directives establish a legal and policy framework that promotes building renovations, enhances energy efficiency, and supports a more integrated approach to assisting citizens and businesses in achieving these objectives.

To inaugurate the new policy series of the EU Peers initiative, we present a practitioner-focused briefing that examines the European policy landscape and its practical implications for one-stop shop operators. This session will update participants on the latest policy developments and provide insights into how these frameworks formally recognize and integrate the one-stop shop model as a central tool in delivering the EU’s energy transition.

A primary focus of the session will be the expectations placed on EU Member States during the transposition of the EPBD and EED into national law. Countries are now required to create supportive regulatory and operational conditions for one-stop shops—particularly in relation to the Renovation Wave strategy, citizen engagement, technical assistance, and access to finance.

For regional governments and energy agencies, the implementation of these directives presents both opportunities and challenges. These bodies will play a crucial role in translating EU-level policy into effective, on-the-ground initiatives. Regional energy agencies, in particular, can act as catalysts for OSS development by coordinating local actors, tailoring solutions to community needs, and ensuring that support structures are inclusive and accessible.

The EPBD introduces provisions that encourage the creation of integrated renovation services, with one-stop shops at the heart of delivering homeowner-centric solutions. The EED, on the other hand, strengthens obligations on energy savings and public sector leadership, further emphasizing the need for accessible, streamlined advisory and support mechanisms.

To help participants navigate this evolving policy environment, the session will also highlight current funding opportunities under the LIFE programme, which can be leveraged to set up or expand OSS operations.

Finally, the event will include an interactive segment for peer-to-peer exchange, allowing practitioners to share their experiences, identify gaps in the current policy framework, and discuss the practical requirements needed to make one-stop shops an effective part of the energy transition in every region.

This is the first in a series of EU Peers online events focusing on policy. Future sessions will delve deeper into national-level implementation and challenges, helping local actors stay ahead of regulatory changes and seize emerging opportunities.

Benefits of One-Stop-Shops for Municipalities:

• Streamlined Services: One-stop shops provide a centralized point of access for citizens and businesses seeking information and support on energy efficiency and building renovations, simplifying the process and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
• Enhanced Citizen Engagement: By offering tailored solutions and technical assistance, OSS can effectively engage citizens in energy transition initiatives, fostering a sense of community involvement and ownership.
• Access to Finance: One-stop shops can facilitate access to funding and financial incentives, making it easier for homeowners and businesses to undertake energy efficiency projects.
• Coordination and Collaboration: Regional energy agencies and local actors can collaborate through OSS to coordinate efforts, share best practices, and develop localized solutions that meet specific community needs.
• Policy Implementation: OSS play a crucial role in translating EU-level policies into actionable initiatives at the local level, ensuring that regulatory changes are effectively implemented and that emerging opportunities are seized.
• Inclusive Support Structures: By ensuring that support structures are inclusive and accessible, one-stop shops can reach a broader audience, including vulnerable and underserved communities, thereby promoting equity in the energy transition.
• Funding Opportunities: OSS can leverage funding opportunities, such as those provided by the LIFE programme, to expand their operations and enhance their capacity to support energy efficiency and renovation projects.

By focusing on these benefits, municipalities can better understand the value of one-stop shops in driving the energy transition and achieving climate and energy objectives.