What Works in Renovating Public Buildings: One-Stop Shop Models and Services

Drawing on the experience of 21 initiatives across Europe, the FACILITA publication What Works in Renovating Public Buildings: One-Stop Shop Models and Services provides practical insights into how public authorities can successfully deliver energy renovations. Grounded in European experience and tailored to the Spanish context, the report shows that the most effective support models are those that guide municipalities through the entire renovation process, from the initial assessment of buildings to the monitoring of results after works are completed. Where support is fragmented or limited to technical advice alone, projects are significantly more likely to stall.

A central finding is the importance of a single, trusted structure that coordinates expertise. Most successful initiatives are led by public or mixed public–private entities, enabling municipalities to navigate procurement procedures, budgeting constraints and legal requirements with greater confidence. By centralising services, these structures reduce administrative burden, shorten decision-making timelines and lower perceived risks for both public authorities and investors.

The publication also underlines that tangible progress depends on practical, step-by-step services rather than abstract strategies. Municipalities achieve better results when support extends beyond energy assessments to include financing guidance, tender preparation, contractor coordination and quality control. Projects that bundle multiple buildings or municipalities consistently secure more favourable conditions and deliver stronger energy savings.

Rather than promoting a single model, the report highlights the value of adaptable solutions that respond to regional realities. The FACILITA pilots in Spain demonstrate that while approaches may differ, successful One-Stop Shop models share a common outcome: they enable deeper renovations, faster implementation and measurable improvements in energy performance.