All EU member states are bound to decrease its greenhouse gas emissions till 2020 by 20% (based 1990 levels), improve its energy efficiency by 20% and increase -renewable energy production by 20% (cf. EU climate and energy package 20-20-20). One of the largest greenhouse gas producers (with about 40% of CO2 emissions) is heating, cooling and hot water production in buildings. At the same time the building sector has the largest potential for energy savings. In their effort to lead a change towards greater energy efficiency and a reduction in CO2 emissions, many cities and companies are in the process of devel- oping low carbon action plans.

However, since the costs for developing optimal action plans and continuously updating and improving them are very high, the efforts are often hindered by the tense financial situation of cities and companies. With significant economic and environmental downsides, because the consequences are additional costs due to the non-compliance to the national and EU emission goals (e.g., resulting in fines) and unutilized energy saving potential (dead capital).

ECOCITIES® supports operators of building portfolios (building groups) in deciding how present budget can be used most effectively to align the energy efficiency of their real estate to required political, economic and environmental objectives. It considers the thermal envelope, heating, cooling, alternative energy networks, photovoltaics, solar thermal and lighting.

ECOCITIES also enables the efficient administration and maintenance of building groups resp. real estate portfolios. It proposes measures the minimum investment and energy costs and cause maximum CO2 reduction.