Strategies for Implementing and Scaling Renovation Passports: A Systematic Review of EU Energy Renovation Policies

Buildings account for a significant share of global energy consumption and carbon emissions, making deep renovations essential for climate mitigation. Renovation Passports (RPs) provide structured, step-by-step renovation roadmaps that prevent lock-in effects and optimise energy performance over time. This study conducts a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to identify key strategies for the successful development and large-scale implementation of RPs in the European Union (EU). A total of 217 research articles from Scopus and ScienceDirect, along with 99 EU policy documents and 16 Building Performance Institute Europe (BPIE) reports, were analysed to assess the technical, financial, behavioural, and policy dimensions of RP adoption. Findings highlight the role of digital tools like Building Information Modelling (BIM), Digital Building Logbooks (DBLs), and One-Stop Shops (OSS) in improving RP usability and accessibility. Financial barriers, such as high upfront costs and fragmented funding, require harmonised incentives, green loans, and energy performance contracting. Behavioural factors, including homeowner awareness, trust in renovation services, and decision-making complexity, influence RP adoption. This study underscores the need for stronger policy integration between RPs and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), improved financial mechanisms, and enhanced stakeholder engagement. Future research should explore standardised performance indicators, digitalisation strategies, and circular economy principles to maximise RP effectiveness within the EU Renovation Wave Strategy.