Within the REHEATEAST project, the first policy brief has been published – “Accelerating the Transformation of District Heating Systems in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE)” – delivering clear, evidence-based messages to decision-makers at national, regional, and local levels.
District heating key to Europe’s clean energy future
Heating accounts for more than 40% of total energy consumption in buildings across Europe, while district heating systems in many Central and Eastern European countries still largely rely on fossil fuels. This exposes users to price volatility, energy poverty, and growing climate risks.
The REHEATEAST project analysis shows that the modernization of district heating systems – through improved energy efficiency, integration of renewable energy sources and waste heat, system optimization, and improved planning – is essential for achieving climate targets while simultaneously improving affordability and energy security.
Strong consensus, but persistent systemic barriers
Drawing on extensive consultations with policymakers, regulators, and sector experts from eight countries, the policy brief confirms a strong consensus that district heating will remain a cornerstone of future energy systems. At the same time, it highlights persistent challenges: regulatory frameworks that lag behind climate ambitions, slow and complex permitting procedures, limited mobilization of private investments, and weak coordination among cities and municipalities, operators, building managers, and end users.
European Union initiatives such as Fit for 55 and REPowerEU provide important momentum, but implementation gaps at the national and local levels continue to slow progress.
Clear policy measures can unlock investment and protect consumers
To overcome these barriers, the policy brief outlines concrete policy measures. These include establishing long-term national district heating strategies aligned with climate goals, introducing mandatory local heating planning and zoning, creating stable and transparent tariff frameworks, strengthening the leadership role of cities and municipalities in integrated heating planning, and ensuring meaningful participation of stakeholders and consumers.
If effectively implemented, these measures can significantly reduce fossil fuel use, lower heating costs, mobilize investment, and create more resilient, climate-adapted urban heating systems.
Decision-makers and other stakeholders are encouraged to read the full policy brief to explore the detailed analysis, key findings, and concrete policy measures needed to accelerate the transformation of district heating systems across Central and Eastern Europe.
The Policy Brief is also available in the Library section of the SCTM website.