EPBD standards from 2026: new-build properties on the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol

Further stages of the EU's EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive) apply from 2026, so new-build properties on the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol will be even greener. For buyers this means lower energy bills, better thermal comfort all year round, lower running costs and a property that holds its value better.

The EPBD is one of the biggest reforms in European construction. Spain, and especially the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol regions, is implementing it very consistently.

What changes in new buildings from 2026?

Stricter energy standards

New buildings will have to meet higher energy-efficiency requirements. Investors are already preparing designs that comply with future standards.

What this means for the buyer:

• lower energy bills,
• better thermal comfort in summer and winter,
• longer-lasting installations,
• a higher resale value for the property.

Better insulation and modern materials

The new rules require the use of:

• higher-performance insulation,
• better-sealed windows,
• materials that reduce energy loss.

The effect is simple: in hot weather your home holds the cool better, in winter the warmth does not escape, and the need for air conditioning and heating falls. In Spain's climate this matters a great deal, and you can feel the difference as soon as you step inside.

Will photovoltaics become standard in new housing developments?

Many developers already fit photovoltaic systems in the communal areas, and from 2026 this will become practically standard.

Benefits:

• lower community running costs,
• a more environmentally friendly building,
• a lighter load on the electricity grid.

Why will heat pumps replace traditional air conditioners?

Traditional air conditioners will gradually be replaced by:

• modern heat pumps,
• aerothermal systems,
• far more energy-efficient appliances.

A heat pump both cools and heats, combining two functions in one unit. It is cheaper to run, quieter and more environmentally friendly. In practice, the buyer gets better comfort at a lower annual cost.

What is the building carbon footprint reporting requirement?

New developments will have to give clients data on:

• the building's CO₂ emissions,
• the materials used,
• energy performance over the years.

The buyer gains full transparency, can judge the quality of the building more easily and can be sure the property meets future standards. For investors this is particularly important: properties with a high energy rating will hold their value and be easier to sell or rent out.

Why is this good news for buyers on the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol?

Spain, especially Alicante and Málaga, is one of Europe's leaders in energy-efficient construction. Developers adapted their designs to the new standards very early, so properties in these regions already meet requirements that will only start to apply in other EU countries later.

For the buyer this means:

• a higher standard at the same price,
• hassle-free handovers and certificates,
• confidence that they are buying a future-proof property,
• lower running costs for many years.

How does Aria Spain check a development's energy standard?

As an agency specialising in the new-build market:

• we analyse the energy standard of every development,
• we compare the technical specifications of different developers,
• we select properties that comply with the latest EU standards,
• we check the energy documentation and the building's carbon footprint,
• we guide you through the entire purchase with no commission.

Sample new-build properties in Altea

• 

  Luxury villa in Altea — from 540.25 m², 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms; by golf courses, private pool, balcony/terrace, parking. Price from 1900000 €.

• 

  Villa in Altea — from 235.50 m², 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms; sea view, air conditioning, private pool, balcony/terrace. Price from 1650000 €.

• 

  Sea-view villa — from 505.00 m², 4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms; sea view, air conditioning, private pool, balcony/terrace. Price from 1921000 €.

• 

  Luxury sea-view apartment — from 586.00 m², 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms; sea view, air conditioning, communal pool, balcony/terrace. Price from 2100000 €.

• 

  Penthouse 50 metres from the beach — from 90.85 m², 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms; by golf courses, air conditioning, balcony/terrace, close to the sea. Price from 490000 €.

*Price does not include VAT.

Frequently asked questions

What is the EPBD directive?

The EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive) is the EU directive on the energy performance of buildings. Its further stages apply from 2026 and raise the requirements for new buildings.

What does the buyer gain from the new energy standards?

Lower energy bills, better thermal comfort in summer and winter, longer-lasting installations and a higher resale value for the property.

Does a heat pump replace air conditioning?

Yes, a heat pump cools and heats in a single unit. It is cheaper to run, quieter and more environmentally friendly than a traditional air conditioner.

What carbon footprint data must a developer provide?

New developments will have to state the building's CO₂ emissions, the materials used and its energy performance over the years.

Do new-build properties on the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol already meet the 2026 standards?

Developers in these regions adapted their designs to the new standards very early, so many properties already meet requirements that will only start to apply in other EU countries later.

Aria Spain sells new-build properties from developers on the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol with no commission for the buyer, and helps you choose a development that meets the 2026 standards. Book a free consultation in Polish.