The greatest potential for using energy intelligently in cities is found in buildings. With, inter alia, the agreement on the recast of the EU Energy Perfomance of Buildings Directive, Europe is setting the blueprint for transforming the energy use in Europe's building stock over the next 10 years. These measures will not be successful unless adequate and effective financing mechanisms are made available.

 In 2009, EuroACE produced the first comprehensive overview of the financial and fiscal instruments currently available in EU Member States to promote the sustainable use of energy in buildings (http://tiny.cc/EuroACEsurvey).

 On 24 March 2010, EuroACE intends to present the results of an updated survey that goes beyond this current paper by highlighting best practice case studies; by identifying specific measures for the private, social and public sectors; and by providing recommendations on the best type of financial policies and mechanisms for the European market.