The impact of energy transition policies on real estate efficiency and renewable energy communities (RECs): An analysis of public awareness and final energy uses in Italy

The Green Deal seeks to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, positioning building operations and renewables promotion as a critical focus areas. Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) have emerged as a key driver of this transformation. In Italy, several policies have been introduced to promote their development; however, their impacts remain underexplored. This study examines the efficiency of real estate, the proliferation of RECs, and public perceptions related to these initiatives through a survey distributed at national level achieving 149 respondents. Findings reveal that 58 % of assessed buildings had undergone retrofit interventions, predominantly aimed at reducing energy bills. Furthermore, 46 % of respondents acknowledged the essential role of incentives in driving these changes, while 73 % of users reported modifications to their energy behaviours. Overall, occupants of retrofitted buildings and RECs participants demonstrated greater awareness of energy topics. These results underscore the critical importance of policy incentives in accelerating the energy transition and stress the need for targeted communication campaigns to enhance public awareness and engagement, so achieving the broader goal of carbon neutrality.