Design of an Energy Policy for the Decarbonisation of Residential and Service Buildings in Northern Portugal

The decarbonisation of the building sector is crucial for Portugal’s goal achieving economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050. To mobilize communities towards energy efficiency measures, it important to understand primary drivers and barriers that must be overcome through policymaking. This paper aims review existing Energy Policies Actions (EPA) in Portugal assess their effectiveness improving Efficiency (EE) reducing CO2 emissions sector. Local Planning Assistant (LEPA) tool was used model, test, validate compare implementation current alternative EPAs North Portugal, including national EE plan. results indicate electrification heating cooling, proliferation Renewable Sources (RES) are climate neutrality. study found modelling can improved reduce investment costs increase Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reduction. Among alternatives assessed, proposed one (Alternative 4) presents best returns on terms cost savings It allows 52% residential 13% service when compared roadmap 2). estimated emission reduction 2050 Alternative 4 0.64% 3.2% 2.