Else Beekman
From 2030, homeowners in Spain, just like elsewhere in the EU, will only be allowed to sell or rent out their property if it has an energy certificate of at least label E. This requirement stems from stricter European regulations aimed at significantly reducing energy consumption in buildings.
Reducing energy consumption is a positive goal, but there is a challenging side to it: El Economista writes that over 80% of homes in Spain currently fall short of the required standard, meaning the majority of property owners will need to invest in upgrades.
Energy label in Spain mandatory from 2030
Spain has required an energy certificate, the Certificado de Eficiencia Energética (CEE), since 2013. This certificate rates the energy performance of a building on a scale from A to G. Now, under new EU climate policy, these certificates will play a much greater role. According to the revised directive, any property sold or rented from 2030 onwards must have at least an E rating. By 2033, D will become the minimum.
The aim is clear: buildings are among the biggest contributors to Europe’s CO₂ emissions. By tightening the rules, Brussels hopes to push homeowners to make their properties more energy efficient.
Most homes in Spain fall below the required energy rating
Figures from Spain’s Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving (IDAE) show that only 16% of properties currently meet or exceed an E rating. In other words, roughly 8 in 10 homes will require improvements before they can legally be sold or let.
Prospective buyers would be wise to check the energy certificate in advance. Purchasing a property with a poor rating means taking on the cost of energy-saving upgrades. That’s why the energy certificate is set to become a key factor in future property transactions.
Fines for missing energy certificate
Failing to provide a valid energy certificate can result in hefty fines. The amount depends on the severity of the offence:
- Minor offences (€300 to €600): Advertising or offering a property without mentioning a valid energy label.
- Serious offences (€601 to €3,000): Failing to register the certificate or not providing it to the buyer or tenant.
- Very serious offences (€3,001 to €6,000): Falsifying the certificate or presenting misleading information about a property’s energy performance.
Obtaining a certificate is generally straightforward. A certified technician inspects the home, issues a report, and offers suggestions for improving the rating. Costs typically range from €100 to €300.
Why investing in your energy label in Spain pays off
Financial advisor Alex Tomás commented on TikTok that some homeowners view the measure as “just another way to squeeze more money from people.” However, a strong energy rating offers clear benefits. Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers and tenants thanks to lower bills and greater comfort.
Investing in improvements early can help homeowners avoid fines while boosting their property’s value. For anyone planning a renovation, it’s well worth taking the Spanish energy certificate seriously.