As of June 3, 2026, the new Minimum Energy Performance Requirements Decree (Ministerial Decree 28/10/2025) will come into force in Italy, significantly updating the regulatory framework for building energy performance, replacing and integrating the provisions of Ministerial Decree 26/06/2015.
This is a major update not only in terms of calculation methodologies, but also in the overall approach to energy design, with practical implications for Energy Performance Certificates (APE), technical reports (Italian “Legge 10”) and system design choices.
A more rigorous approach to energy performance
The decree introduces more detailed evaluation criteria that are better aligned with the actual behaviour of buildings.
Assessments become more structured and less simplified, with the aim of reducing the gap between theoretical performance and real results.
This leads to greater attention to both envelope quality and proper system integration, directly impacting overall energy performance.
Thermal bridges: more detailed assessments
One of the most significant updates is the explicit inclusion of thermal bridges within the reference building.
The decree provides for:
- a detailed assessment of the most common thermal bridges;
- the use of specific coefficients (Ψ) differentiated by type and climate zone;
- alignment between the actual building geometry and the calculation model.
This approach allows for a more accurate representation of heat losses, affecting both design verification and energy classification.
Gross surfaces and revised parameters
The new decree also explicitly establishes the use of gross surfaces as the basis for calculations.
This choice standardises application criteria and leads to a revision of performance limits, with effects on transmittance checks and overall building parameters.
At the same time, reference values for the envelope are updated and certain parameters—such as the global heat transfer coefficient (H’t)—are redefined, with clearer distinctions between new buildings and renovation projects.
Updated calculation methodologies
The decree introduces new technical references for energy performance calculations, including:
- UNI/TS 11300-5 and 11300-6, relating to primary energy calculation and transport services (elevators, escalators);
- UNI EN 15193 for lighting energy demand.
In addition, the Carnot method is introduced for evaluating district heating and cogeneration systems, improving the representation of primary energy in complex systems.
Systems and control: new requirements
The decree strengthens the role of building systems, particularly in terms of control and regulation.
In non-residential buildings with thermal systems above 290 kW, the installation of building automation and control systems (BACS) of at least Class B, according to UNI EN ISO 52120-1, is required where technically and economically feasible.
Furthermore, in the case of generator replacement, the installation of temperature self-regulating devices for each room is required, where applicable.
These provisions highlight the growing importance of system operation and control in achieving energy efficiency targets.
Electric mobility infrastructure
The decree introduces more structured requirements for integrating electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
These requirements apply to:
- new buildings;
- major renovations;
- certain existing non-residential buildings with parking areas.
Minimum numbers of charging points and infrastructure provisions are defined, along with progressive implementation timelines.
Greater focus on comfort and safety
Among the most relevant updates is the introduction of more explicit guidance regarding:
- thermal and hygrometric comfort;
- indoor environmental quality;
- safety aspects, including fire safety and structural considerations.
Energy design is therefore framed within a broader concept of building quality and safety, taking into account not only energy consumption but also real usage conditions.
Implications for design and renovation
The new regulatory framework leads to several operational implications:
- greater accuracy in energy modelling;
- increased attention to envelope construction details;
- closer integration between building components and systems;
- the need to consider control as an integral part of the building-system interaction.
In renovation projects in particular, the updated verification methods require a more structured approach to performance evaluation.
The role of temperature control
In this context, temperature control becomes increasingly relevant.
Proper management of setpoints and operating cycles improves comfort stability and reduces energy consumption, supporting compliance with regulatory performance requirements.
The presence of appropriate control systems therefore becomes a functional element not only for compliance, but also for overall user experience.
IMIT’s contribution
Starting from 2026, designers, installers and industry professionals will be required to adopt a more integrated approach, where envelope, systems and control work together to achieve the desired performance.
Within this framework, IMIT continues to develop solutions for system control and safety, supporting professionals and end users in achieving efficient temperature management.
The Minimum Energy Performance Requirements Decree 2025 represents a significant evolution of the regulatory framework, aimed at greater consistency between design, energy performance and actual building operation. In this scenario, precise and reliable control proves to be one of the most effective tools for translating regulatory requirements into measurable results, contributing to improved energy efficiency and long-term comfort.