New energy performance certificate from 2026: What the EU A to G scale means for Berlin properties

What is changing

The EU buildings directive (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, EPBD), adopted in spring 2024, approved by the European Parliament on 12 March and formally adopted by the Council on 12 April, harmonises the energy efficiency rating in the energy performance certificate (Energieausweis) across the EU. The certificate itself remains in place, but the previous German efficiency classification from A+ to H is replaced by a uniform scale from A to G. The scale is based on a national reassessment of the building stock.

Class A corresponds to buildings with very high energy efficiency and typically includes so-called zero-emission buildings, which must meet additional criteria. When the scale is introduced, Class G is defined by the 15 percent least efficient buildings in the national stock. It serves to calibrate the scale, not as a permanent share.

The transposition deadline for member states ends on 29 May 2026. The German draft law is due to be approved by the cabinet by Easter 2026, but has not yet been adopted.

Possible expanded certification requirements

In addition to the familiar triggers, sale, letting and new construction, the EPBD provides for rules that can lead to additional certification requirements. National transposition could, for example, introduce obligations for certain contract changes or for major renovations. Under the directive, a major renovation applies when more than 25 percent of the building envelope is affected, or when the renovation costs exceed 25 percent of the building's value.

From 2028, large new buildings must additionally provide a life-cycle calculation of CO₂ emissions, and from 2030 this applies to all new buildings.

The EPBD also requires national digital databases for energy performance certificates with standardised data sets and EU-wide comparability. The aim is to record the energy data of buildings systematically and to make it usable for monitoring renovation progress.

Costs for owners

Issuing an energy performance certificate costs between 150 and 500 euros depending on the building. For owners of larger holdings, such as apartment building portfolios, the costs add up. Because existing certificates remain valid until they expire, the replacement happens gradually.

Price effect: energy efficiency as a value factor

The new classification can reinforce a development that is already visible in the Berlin market. The energy condition of a property increasingly affects its price. Empirical studies show price discounts of 5 to 20 percent for buildings with poor energy efficiency classes compared with similar, more efficient properties.

For resale apartments in Berlin, the average transaction price is €5,320 per sqm per sqm. Properties with low energy ratings are in some cases considerably below this. A more transparent scale could widen this price discount further.

What buyers and sellers should consider

For apartment buyers, the energy performance certificate will become an even more important valuation factor. The A to G scale makes comparisons easier and shows the energy condition at a glance. Poor energy ratings signal a need for upgrades, and therefore additional costs after the purchase.

Sellers should review the energy condition of their building, as it is likely to factor more heavily into valuations in future. A professional property valuation takes the energy condition into account and can help to assess the achievable price realistically. Our Market Intelligence reports offer an overview of current prices by location.