Each EPB standard allows specific choices to accommodate national/regional differences in climate, building tradition, policy and user behaviour. Is it then allowed for a national authority to make specific choices mandatory?

Indeed, each country/region can make specific choices to accommodate national/regional differences in climate, building tradition, policy and user behaviour, as long as the template of Annex A of a given EPB standard is respected.

These choices are laid down in a National Annex or National Data Sheet on that standard.

Such a document is in itself informative and not mandatory. However, a National Annex or National Data Sheet can be made mandatory for use within a specific context. For instance, a public authority may issue a National Data Sheet or refer to a National Annex to the standard, containing the required parameters (“filled in” Annex A) for specific regulatory purposes (energy performance certificates (EPCs), building permit, use permit, incentives, etc.).

More information:

• Page on national annexes
• Recording of presentation (20 min.): “General guidance and introduction to national options (choices“
  (from webinar: “Guidance and examples for the EPB standards’ flexibility“)

2019.07.22 (updated 2021-01-22)