Why the SmarterEPC testing phase matters
The SmarterEPC testing phase plays a crucial role in advancing the joint evaluation of the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). By 2027, all EU Member States will adopt the SRI, a tool promoted by the European Commission to measure the smart readiness of buildings.
Because EPCs are already mandatory under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), both assessments will soon run in parallel. SmarterEPC anticipates this scenario and develops solutions that make the process simpler for assessors and building owners.
SmarterEPC testing phase and the joint audit procedure
One of the main innovations in the project is the joint audit procedure. Instead of conducting two separate evaluations, assessors can now collect input data for both EPC and SRI in a single step.
This work takes place in the project’s demonstration Work Package (WP), coordinated by the EPB Center. EPC experts draft a European Norm (EN) standardisation document, while external assessors recruited by the consortium will validate it.
The SmarterEPC Hub: digital integration of EPC and SRI
The SmarterEPC Hub stands at the core of this phase. This digital platform connects input data with existing EPC and SRI tools, many of which were created in Horizon and LIFE projects.
By offering a single interface, the Hub improves usability, ensures interoperability, and makes EPC–SRI integration scalable across Europe.
First results from the SmarterEPC testing phase
In June 2025, partners completed the first demonstration round of the SmarterEPC testing phase. They assessed 14 building units across seven countries, applying both EPC and SRI methodologies.
Each partner evaluated one residential and one non-residential building. The testing focused on three aspects:
Usability – how intuitive the Hub feels for assessors
Workflow – how EPC and SRI assessments combine in practice
Interoperability – how well the Hub connects with external tools
After the tests, partners shared their feedback with the development team. Based on this input, the team released an improved version of the Hub.
Structured evaluation process
The demonstration phase follows a clear three-step evaluation path:
Developers test the first version and fix technical issues.
Consortium partners validate workflows and check functionality.
EPC assessors act as end-users and provide the final validation.
This step-by-step approach ensures continuous improvement and keeps the Hub aligned with real market needs.
Next steps in the SmarterEPC testing phase
The project now moves forward with the involvement of real EPC assessors. Through dedicated SmarterEPC training sessions, they will test the Hub under market conditions.
This final round will demonstrate whether joint EPC and SRI assessments can be carried out efficiently and at scale.
The SmarterEPC testing phase proves that EPC and SRI integration is possible, practical, and scalable. By combining two assessments into one digital Hub, SmarterEPC helps assessors save time, improves accuracy, and supports the EU’s long-term vision of smarter, more energy-efficient buildings.
For more on European building policies, visit the European Commission’s energy efficiency portal.
