How crossCert and FEDECOM are revolutionising building energy systems in Europe
At Heriot-Watt University’s iNetZ+ Global Research Institute for Net Zero and beyond, groundbreaking research is driving the future of sustainable energy in the built environment. Among the standout initiatives are crossCert and FEDECOM, two transformative projects reshaping building energy systems across Europe and directly supporting the continent’s ambitious net-zero goals.
Making energy certification smarter with crossCert
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are crucial tools for improving energy efficiency in buildings. However, inconsistencies and usability challenges have limited their impact. Enter crossCert, a Horizon2020-funded project designed to transform the next generation of EPCs.
By testing energy certification procedures in over 140 buildings across 10 European countries, crossCert aims to make EPCs more accurate, user-friendly, and consistent across the EU. The project adopts a people-centric approach, ensuring certificates aren’t just technical documents but practical guides for reducing energy use. The result? Homeowners and policymakers alike will gain clearer insights into energy performance, enabling smarter decisions that cut carbon emissions and energy costs.
Empowering communities with FEDECOM
FEDECOM, funded by Horizon Europe, focuses on the growing importance of local energy communities. These are groups of households and businesses working together to generate, store, and share renewable energy.
FEDECOM is demonstrating how integrating local energy systems can enhance grid stability, reduce costs, and increase the capacity for renewable energy. By unlocking demand-side flexibility—the ability to adjust energy use based on supply—communities are empowered to take ownership of their energy systems while contributing to a cleaner grid.
Building a Net-Zero future
Both crossCert and FEDECOM highlight how collaboration across Europe can deliver tangible, scalable solutions for decarbonising buildings. By improving energy certifications and enabling community-driven energy systems, these projects are paving the way for a resilient, net-zero Europe.
Discover more about the innovative work at iNetZ+ and how it’s driving change: Read more.