Construction Law Insights

Getting Buildings ‘Fit for 55’

Further to our Overview of Fit for 55, we set out below a summary of the amendments to European Union (EU) legislation that will shape the built environment landscape and pave the way for EV charging and a smart metering infrastructure. These proposed amendments are required as it has been reported that the energy consumption of buildings needs to fall by 14%, and associated emissions by 60%, to meet Europe’s 2030 climate target.

‘Fit for 55’: a quick overview

The EU has set a binding target of achieving climate neutrality by 2050. This requires current greenhouse gas emission levels to drop substantially over the next decades. As an intermediate step towards climate neutrality, the EU has raised its 2030 climate ambition, committing to cutting emissions by at least 55% by 2030.

New consultations to raise energy efficiency standards in buildings in England and Wales

In the UK, different systems of property law operate in each jurisdiction (England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland).

Interpreting pre-commencement condition, post-permission material impermissible aid to interpretation (Patel v Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government)

FIDIC’s new Green Book and other recent developments

As the world emerges into a post-COVID future, it is clear that infrastructure investment will play a crucial role in the recovery of global and national economies.

On the horizon: FIDIC’s new Green Book

Last year, we commented on the new agreements that FIDIC published at the end of 2019.