An important goal of public policy to stimulate transition to a sustainable energy system is to improve energy efficiency –a target clearly set out in Sustainable Development Goal 7.

Indeed, improving energy efficiency is one of the most cost-effective options for meeting growing energy demand, ensuring more rational use of energy, securing economic well-being and improved quality of life, and contributing to a better environment and to energy security in most countries.

Today, approximately one third of total final energy consumption and almost 40 per cent of carbon dioxide emissions result from the energy services required in buildings.

Improving energyefficiency in buildingsis an opportunity to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy, build resilient infrastructure, makecities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable, ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns, and take action on climate change.

Technical solutions to improve energy efficiency in buildings exist, but their deployment requires standards, supporting measures and enforcement mechanisms, as well as technical capacity, improved consumer knowledge, and a holistic and consistent policy approach that involvesavariety of stakeholders.

Building on UNECE studies previously conducted in the area of energy efficiency in buildings, this publication explores and maps the existing standards and technologies, outlining the best practices identified across the region. It suggests a set of recommendations arising from the conducted analysis, which are intended to support the member States in their ongoing efforts to increase buildings’ energy performance.