Ljubljana - The government adopted on Thursday a strategy for improvement of energy efficiency of buildings until 2050 that, among other things, defines decarbonisation approaches and policies of the National Housing Fund.

The strategy will promote sustainable refurbishment of old buildings and new construction that would reach almost zero emissions, the Government Communication Office says in a press release.

It adds that improvement of energy efficiency of buildings is a long-term task that would gradually cover the entire housing stock in the coming years, while at the same time greatly improving the quality of the interior.

More than 75% of the existing buildings are expected to be in use in 2050 and greater investments in refurbishment are expected in relation to new findings about the risks posed by the ageing material or natural disasters.

The vision defined by the long-term strategy is significant improvement of the energy efficiency and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions as the consumption of renewable sources of energy in buildings increases.

This is expected to bring Slovenia closer to zero emissions in the building sector by 2050, which will also be achieved with the greater use of centralised heating systems, the release adds.

The document also looks to improve buildings from the aspect of earthquake and fire safety and the quality of the interior. This is expected to significantly reduce emissions of other harmful substances as well.

The strategy is tied to the EU goal of reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 80-95% by 2050 in comparison with 1990.