EU launches public consultation on affordable housing rules
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The European Commission has opened a public consultation to revise state aid rules supporting affordable housing, aiming to boost investment and address a growing housing crisis. The consultation invites contributions from citizens, businesses, public authorities, and associations until 31 July 2025.
Vice President Teresa Ribera stressed that housing affordability is becoming a widespread social emergency across Europe, not just affecting low-income groups. Rising urban demand, high housing costs, limited supply, an aging housing stock, regional economic disparities, and the impact of short-term rentals have all intensified the issue.
In response, the Commission appointed Dan Jørgensen as Commissioner for Housing and created a dedicated task force to coordinate housing policy. A comprehensive European Affordable Housing Plan is expected in 2026, aiming to complement national and local strategies while respecting the subsidiarity principle.
The Commission’s review will also include changes to state aid regulations to better support energy-efficient and affordable housing projects, helping member states respond faster and more effectively to housing needs.
Vice President Teresa Ribera stressed that housing affordability is becoming a widespread social emergency across Europe, not just affecting low-income groups. Rising urban demand, high housing costs, limited supply, an aging housing stock, regional economic disparities, and the impact of short-term rentals have all intensified the issue.
In response, the Commission appointed Dan Jørgensen as Commissioner for Housing and created a dedicated task force to coordinate housing policy. A comprehensive European Affordable Housing Plan is expected in 2026, aiming to complement national and local strategies while respecting the subsidiarity principle.
The Commission’s review will also include changes to state aid regulations to better support energy-efficient and affordable housing projects, helping member states respond faster and more effectively to housing needs.