From 2026, the next stages of the EU’s EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive) will come into force. This is one of the biggest building reforms in Europe – and Spain, especially the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol regions, is implementing it very consistently.
For those buying a new property in Spain, this is great news. The energy standard of new developments will increase further and buildings will be more comfortable, cheaper to maintain and environmentally friendly.
In this article, I explain what is changing from 2026 and how these changes affect buyers.
1. stricter energy standards for new developments
New buildings will have to meet higher energy efficiency requirements. Investors are already preparing designs that comply with future standards.
What does this mean for the buyer?
✔ lower energy bills
✔ better heat comfort in summer and winter
✔ longer lifetime of the installation
✔ higher property value on the secondary market
2. better insulation and modern materials
The new legislation enforces the use of:
- higher-performance insulation,
- windows with improved airtightness,
- materials that limit energy loss.
Benefit to the buyer:
✔ the flat “keeps” the cold better in hot weather
✔ less heat loss in winter
✔ less need for air conditioning and heating
In the Spanish climate, this makes all the difference – the difference is felt as soon as you step inside.
3. photovoltaics in new housing estates
Many developers are already preparing photovoltaic installations in common areas, and this will become virtually standard from 2026.
What does this offer?
✔ lower maintenance costs for the community
✔ more environmentally friendly operation of the building
✔ lower load on the electricity grid
4. heat pumps instead of old air conditioners
Traditional air conditioners will gradually be displaced by:
- modern heat pumps,
- aerothermal systems,
- appliances with much higher energy efficiency.
Why is this important?
✔ the heat pump cools and heats – two functions in one unit
✔ is less expensive to run
✔ operates more quietly
✔ is more environmentally friendly
In practice, the buyer gets better comfort at a lower annual cost.
5. obligation to report the carbon footprint of a building
New investments will have to present data to clients on:
- CO₂ emissions of the building,
- the materials used,
- energy efficiency over the years.
What does the buyer gain?
✔ full transparency
✔ easier assessment of building quality
✔ certainty that the property meets future standards
For investors, this is particularly important – properties with a high energy rating will hold value and be easier to sell or rent.
Why is this good news for shoppers on the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol?
Spain – especially Alicante and Málaga – is one of the leaders in Europe when it comes to energy-efficient construction. Developers have adapted projects to the new standards very early on.
👉 As a result, properties in these regions already meet requirements that are yet to take effect in other EU countries.
For you, this means:
- a higher standard at the same price,
- problem-free acceptance and certification,
- the certainty that you are buying a future-proof property,
- lower maintenance costs for many years.
How does Aria Spain help?
As an agency specialising in the primary market:
- we analyse the energy standard of each investment,
- we compare the technical parameters of different developers,
- We select properties for you that comply with the latest EU standards,
- we check the energy records and carbon footprint of the building,
- We guide you through the entire purchase process commission-free.
If you want to buy a property that already meets the 2026 standards – get in touch. I can help you choose the best, future-proof investment on the Costa Blanca or Costa del Sol.
