This article analysed Greece’s evolving regulatory framework on energy efficiency and sustainable construction within the broader context of climate change and the European Green Deal (EGD). It highlighted the Just Transition Mechanism as a key tool supporting regions shifting to a climate-neutral economy and underscored the obligation that, from 2021, all new buildings must meet nearly zero-energy standards (NZEB, Category A).
The authors examined incentives for high-efficiency buildings, the mandatory integration of solar systems, and the significant challenge of upgrading Greece’s ageing building stock. Drawing on the “Saving at Home” programme, they noted the substantial benefits of moderate to deep renovations but also the administrative complexity of the process.
Special attention was given to heritage buildings, where upgrades require approvals from specialised cultural and architectural bodies to ensure compatibility with traditional character. The article also reviewed European best practices and traced the evolution of Greek energy – efficiency legislation from the 1980 Thermal Insulation Regulation to recent EU-aligned reforms.
It concluded that energy efficiency is central to Greece’s climate strategy, while stressing the
need for streamlined procedures and solutions that respect both environmental imperatives
and cultural heritage.