Transnational cooperation for the improvement of buildings energy performance and efficiency 
The building sector, responsible for about 40% of the EU's total final energy consumption and CO2 emissions, provides many cost-efficient opportunities for action, while contributing at the same time to the welfare of EU citizens. The EU is making a real effort to improve the energy efficiency of Europe's buildings and recently revised its legislation to prompt faster improvements. The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD - COM 2002/91/EC and recast COM 2010/31/EU) has been the main legal instrument in this effort. Successful implementation of this legislation lies not only at national, but also at regional and local level, as territorial authorities can play an essential role in the field of energy performance of buildings and lead by example. South East European public authorities at all levels are putting in a large effort to get the legislation implemented. Some are well advanced while others are at an initial stage. In order for the territorial authorities to respond to their demanding role, the promotion of dialogue, transfer of know-how and exchange of experiences and good practices among them and other interested stakeholders is necessary. The overall objective of the project is to support local and regional administrations in South East Europe to develop, uphold and advance policies and mechanisms for improving the energy efficiency in buildings. This objective will be achieved through the development of a transnational partnership, which facilitates the exchange of experience, knowledge and good practices among its members, and the implementation of joint actions on this matter of strategic importance.