This white paper underscores selected key EU and national initiatives aimed at promoting a fair and inclusive energy transition alongside building renovations. District heating and cooling, as well as positive energy districts present collective mechanisms to improve energy efficiency and affordability. Renewable energy communities empower citizens and local organizations to produce and manage their own renewable energy sources. Integrated advisory services, often referred to as one-stop shops, facilitate home renovations and enhance energy efficiency, particularly benefiting vulnerable consumers. These can be complemented with initiatives, such as energy coaching, to further support the most vulnerable. Building renovation passports provide a structured, systematic approach to renovations, ensuring both long-term energy performance gains and affordability. The societal readiness concept further addresses behavioural, social, and economic barriers, promoting widespread public engagement in the transition.

This white paper is part of the Implementation Working Group 5 on Energy Efficiency in Buildings (IWG5-Buildings) and contributes to the European Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan. Task Force 5 on Just Transition and Affordable Sustainable Renovation, coordinated by IWG5-CSA, provides expert guidance to support policy implementation and foster an inclusive energy transition. By integrating social dimensions with technical and financial considerations, this document serves as a roadmap to ensure that the EU’s energy transition is not only effective but equitable for all in its multiple dimensions.