Empowering First-Time Buyers with Sustainable, Affordable Homes

A consortium of leading European organisations has joined forces for LEG-UP (Linking Energy-efficient Green Upgrades with Private Investments), an ambitious initiative selected under the LIFE Programme by CINEA and currently in contract negotiations with the European Commission.

LEG-UP aims to transform the housing market for low-income first-time buyers by offering a groundbreaking model that combines affordable home ownership with deep energy renovation. The project directly supports the EU Taxonomy and 2050 climate targets while tackling energy poverty through accessible and scalable green financing solutions.

A Game-Changer for Energy-Intensive Homes

Too often, low-income buyers are limited to purchasing outdated, energy-wasting homes—trapped in cycles of high energy bills and poor living conditions, with no means to renovate. LEG-UP addresses this market gap by offering:

Integrated financing models that support both the purchase and renovation of homes

One-Stop Shops (OSS) that provide technical guidance, financial advice, and renovation support

Green loan structures that reduce risk for both lenders and homeowners

These services ensure that buyers can make informed, impactful decisions, resulting in healthier, more efficient homes and stronger communities.

Pilots and Scaling

Pilot projects will be launched in Flanders and Spain, testing the model's effectiveness and refining it for broader European replication. Thanks to strong local partnerships and proven OSS infrastructures, the project is well-positioned for rapid scale-up across Europe.

LEG-UP plans to mobilise over €2 billion in private investment within six years, leveraging ESG-compliant securitisation structures to attract institutional capital and accelerate the shift toward sustainable housing.

Aligned with EU Policy

LEG-UP fully aligns with:

EU Taxonomy and green finance criteria

European Green Deal and 2050 climate-neutral targets

The broader ambition to ensure socially fair, sustainable housing policies across Member States