nZEB building requirements come into effect in Ukraine

As of 1 April 2025, requirements for buildings with nearly zero energy consumption (nZEB) have entered into force. They were approved by the Ministry for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development on 6 February 2025, Order No. 168.

nZEB refers to buildings with very high energy efficiency, where almost all required energy should come from renewable sources. These requirements are currently voluntary, but they allow buildings to be certified under the new rules.

"We are offering options, not imposing strict rules. This is a great opportunity to try, learn, and gain experience," commented First Deputy Minister Aliona Shkrum.

The nZEB building requirements in Ukraine include

Energy efficiency class of the building:

• New buildings must meet class “A”;
• Renovated buildings — not lower than class “B”.

Indicator of primary energy consumption from non-renewable sources.

Share of energy from renewable sources:

• At least 53% (climate zone I) or 57% (zone II) must be used for heating and cooling.

Thermal performance of building envelope structures:

• Minimum insulation values have been set and may not be reduced using adjustment coefficients.

Air permeability of the building and requirements for engineering systems.

The list of requirements also includes mandatory use of solar panels and external shading systems.

Earlier, during the public discussion of the requirements, representatives of the window industry proposed adjusting thermal bridge indicators for windows, doors, and walls in nZEB buildings.