Deadline: 16-Sep-2026

The European Commission has launched a grant programme under the BUILD UP Skills initiative to support the development of energy efficiency skills in Europe’s construction sector. This initiative aims to accelerate the clean energy transition by tackling workforce shortages and improving training systems.

Key Objectives of the Programme

The programme focuses on strengthening the construction workforce through targeted actions:

1. Skills Development & Workforce Transformation

• Upskilling and reskilling workers in energy-efficient construction
• Promoting green jobs and sustainable building practices
• Supporting lifelong learning in the construction sector

2. Energy Efficiency & Clean Energy Integration

• Improving knowledge of energy-efficient technologies
• Integrating renewable energy systems in buildings
• Advancing nearly-zero energy buildings (NZEB)

3. Strengthening Construction Value Chains

• Enhancing collaboration across contractors, suppliers, and designers
• Improving efficiency in renovation and retrofitting projects

4. Skills Gap Analysis

• Conducting labour market assessments
• Identifying missing competencies in the workforce
• Mapping needs across vocational and higher education systems

5. National Roadmap Development

• Creating structured plans for education and training reform
• Defining timelines, funding needs, and monitoring indicators

What Are National Skills Platforms?

National Skills Platforms are a core component of this programme.

Definition

Permanent, multi-stakeholder platforms that:

• Bring together public authorities, industry, and training providers
• Coordinate actions related to energy efficiency skills
• Align national policies with labour market needs

Key Functions

• Improve stakeholder collaboration
• Raise awareness about energy efficiency careers
• Support implementation of national roadmaps

Funding Details

• Total Budget: €3,000,000
• Funding Type: Grant funding under EU programmes
• Scope: National-level projects focused on skills and workforce development

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

Eligible Entities

• Legal organisations established in:
  • EU Member States
  • European Economic Area (EEA) countries
  • Overseas countries and territories
  • Countries associated with the LIFE Programme

Coordinator Requirement

• The lead (coordinating) organisation must be based in an eligible country

Typical Participants

• Government agencies
• Construction companies and industry bodies
• Vocational training institutions
• Universities and research centres
• Professional associations

How the Programme Works (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Establish or Update National Skills Platforms

• Build partnerships across sectors
• Ensure representation of key stakeholders

Step 2: Conduct Skills Gap Analysis

• Collect labour market data
• Identify workforce shortages and training gaps

Step 3: Develop National Roadmaps

• Define strategic priorities
• Set measurable goals and timelines
• Allocate resources and responsibilities

Step 4: Implement Awareness & Communication Campaigns

• Promote careers in energy efficiency
• Encourage workforce participation
• Disseminate roadmap results

Step 5: Secure Stakeholder Endorsement

• Gain support from policymakers and industry leaders
• Ensure long-term sustainability of initiatives

Why This Programme Matters

1. Addresses Critical Skills Shortages

Europe faces a growing demand for skilled workers in energy-efficient construction and renovation.

2. Supports Climate Goals

The initiative aligns with EU policies such as:

• Energy Efficiency Directive
• Energy Performance of Buildings Directive
• Renewable Energy Directive

3. Enables Clean Energy Transition

A skilled workforce is essential for achieving sustainable building targets and reducing emissions.

4. Strengthens Economic Growth

• Creates green jobs
• Enhances competitiveness of the construction sector

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Failing to involve all key stakeholders early
• Weak or incomplete labour market data analysis
• Lack of clear implementation timelines
• Poor coordination between education and industry
• Insufficient communication and outreach efforts

Best Practices & Tips

• Build strong partnerships across sectors
• Use data-driven approaches for skills analysis
• Align national roadmaps with EU policies
• Focus on long-term sustainability of platforms
• Invest in large-scale awareness campaigns

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the main goal of this programme?

To develop energy efficiency skills and address workforce shortages in Europe’s construction sector.

2. How much funding is available?

A total of €3,000,000 is allocated for this initiative.

3. Who can apply?

Legal entities from EU Member States, EEA countries, and associated countries under the LIFE Programme.

4. What are national roadmaps?

Strategic plans outlining how countries will improve education and training systems for energy efficiency skills.

5. What is a skills gap analysis?

A structured assessment to identify shortages in workforce skills and training needs.

6. Is collaboration required?

Yes, strong cooperation between public authorities, industry, and training providers is essential.

7. What sectors benefit the most?

Construction, renovation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy sectors.

Conclusion

The European Commission’s BUILD UP Skills programme is a strategic initiative to strengthen Europe’s clean energy workforce. By investing in skills development, stakeholder collaboration, and national planning, it directly supports the transition to energy-efficient and sustainable buildings.

Organizations that actively participate will not only access funding but also play a key role in shaping the future of Europe’s construction and energy sectors.

For more information, visit European Commission.