Luxembourg has set a course towards climate neutrality

Luxembourg ministers responded to parliamentary questions on measures to achieve climate neutrality for public buildings. A key objective is to achieve this status by 2040 for public buildings and to involve municipal administrations in the process. However, differences in approach and limited resources make it questionable whether these ambitions can be achieved within the deadline.

The government relies on Pacte Climat 2.0, which aims to stimulate the energy modernisation of buildings in municipalities. This tool is supported by Klima-Agence, the agency responsible for technical assistance and programme management. Among the key initiatives:

• A regular update to the Enercoach platform, which provides monitoring and planning for modernisation. The new Enercoach 3.0 version will take into account the tightened EU directives on energy efficiency and energy performance of buildings.
• Financial support through specialised programmes such as the Klimabonus Wunnen and commitments from energy suppliers.

Despite the efforts, current indicators show mixed results. Of the 89 communities participating in Pacte Climat, about two-thirds have developed building retrofit plans, but only one-third have moved to implement concrete measures. Overall energy consumption in these buildings is showing a decline, but the pace of modernisation remains insufficient.

The state budget of 80-85 million euros is mainly dedicated to energy modernisation of state-owned buildings. Municipalities finance their projects through their own budgets and available support programmes.

Implementation of the initiative requires increased monitoring and clearer planning. Challenges include the financial constraints of municipalities and the need for accelerated adaptation to new EU standards. Expanded technical assistance and implementation of the Enercoach 3.0 platform will be important steps to move towards the goals.