18/08/2025
ECSP is pleased to announce a significant advocacy achievement: the European Commission’s final guidance on Article 14 of the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) now reflects ECSP’s key positions, delivering pragmatic and cost-effective solutions for the retail real estate sector.
For the past 18 months, ECSP, together with its Members, has worked closely with the European Commission, EPBD rapporteur MEP Ciaran Cuffe, and technical experts. Our goal was clear: ensure that new EU rules on charging infrastructure and bicycle parking were ambitious enough to support the transition to sustainable mobility, but also workable for retail property owners and managers.
The final guidance confirms three major wins for the sector:
1. Pragmatic ducting flexibility
The Commission now recognises that existing conduits, such as those already in place for lighting or CCTV, can be counted as compliant “ducting” for electric vehicle chargers. This interpretation eliminates the need for costly new works. Even in outdoor car parks, proximity to electric boxes may be sufficient to comply — a major step towards simplified, proportionate requirements.
2. Tailored charging solutions
While the Directive sets a numerical requirement for charging points, the guidance introduces much-needed flexibility. It allows owners to combine different types of chargers (e.g. high-power and standard) with existing ducting, and enables Member States to adapt requirements to building type and dwell time. This ensures that implementation reflects real operating conditions — for example, recognising the different needs of a shopping centre versus an office building.
3. Proportionate bicycle parking
Member States may now adjust bicycle parking obligations for non-residential buildings not typically accessed by bikes, such as many out-of-town retail centres. This common-sense provision recognises the diversity of retail locations and avoids imposing infrastructure that would see little use.
This success story demonstrates the value of a united sector voice in EU decision-making. By combining technical evidence with coordinated advocacy, ECSP has secured a regulatory outcome that supports sustainability goals while avoiding disproportionate burdens on commercial real estate.
If you would like to learn more or discuss this topic further, please contact us at bouyeron@ecsp.eu.
