JRC report lists vacuum insulation panels as one of the technologies needed to phase out inefficient buildings in Europe

VIPA International, the Vacuum Insulation Panel Association, welcomes the report published by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre on 25 March 2015 “Energy Renovation: The Trump Card for the New Start for Europe” especially the recognition of vacuum insulation panels as an example of the innovative and advanced insulation technologies needed to improve the energy efficiency of the walls and floors of Europe’s buildings.

The report illustrates that moving forward with a significant upgrade of the existing building stock would improve Europe’s energy security and independence, contribute to the CO₂ emissions reduction objective and at the same time stimulate innovation, economic growth and employment.

According to the data published, in 2012 buildings were responsible for 38% of the EU’s total CO₂ emissions with space heating being one of the main contributors. “To reduce heating needs and their climate impact across Europe, buildings need to be insulated, heating systems replaced by best available technologies and renewable energy solutions deployed where feasible.” Vacuum insulation panels are one of the available technologies that can help reduce the heating and cooling demand of existing dwellings. VIPs perform five to twenty times better than conventional insulation materials.

Roland Caps, VIPA International President stated: “this report of the Joint Research Centre adds to many other publications offering abundant evidence about the benefits of a deep renovation of Europe’s building stock. VIPA International hopes this can convince Member States to proceed with the implementation of existing legislation on energy efficiency of buildings as the gains to the economy and also to the living conditions of citizens are undeniable.”