Opportunities, challenges, and risks relating to the EU and domestic regulations of energy efficiency in buildings in Ireland and Finland

Abstract

According to statistical data, almost three-quarters of global GHG emissions belong to the energy sector. In these terms, developing energy efficiency tools in the building sector is a vital key to reaching the Paris Agreement goals. What is more, the development of energy efficiency contributes toward accomplishing sustainable development goals. This thesis presents a comparative study of energy efficiency in the building sector in Finland and Ireland through examining and analyzing their legal frameworks, the EU legal framework, administrative and regulating authorities at the national levels, and challenges in the implementation of energy efficiency related measures in existing residential and building sectors, and also sheds light on specific domestic measures. Further, this thesis presents a comparative discussion and suggests recommendations for the development of energy efficiency measures in the building sector in Finland and Ireland.