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    Sustainable Construction

    Building a net zero future, together

    CFP Energy helps large-scale infrastructure, construction and development companies reduce their carbon emissions and accelerate their energy transition.

    The challenge for sustainability in construction

    Regulatory pressure is mounting and carbon costs are growing for European construction operators.

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    Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in 2026 means cement, steel & aluminium face carbon pricing

    £40-£80

    Producing one tonne of cement costs an additional £40-£80 in carbon costs

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    The built environment is responsible for around 40% of global C02 emissions

    From sustainable fuels to ETS strategy

    “CFP Energy can supply vehicles with sustainable fuels which can instantly reduce on-site carbon emissions, without the need for investment in new vehicles. Renewable diesel is one solution we can provide access to, but we have a range of options depending on the specific requirements of your operations. We have a proven track record of supporting major infrastructure and developments across Europe with decarbonisation initiatives and we’re well equipped to help you, today.”

    Tim Atkinson

    Head of Carbon

    Helping you navigate net zero

    CFP Energy works across Europe, providing the building and construction industries with a range of solutions to decarbonise major developments in the immediate and long-term future.

    CFP Energy can supply a range of sustainable fuels, renewable energy solutions, and financial services to help you reduce shipping. 

    Construction firms can use green certificates to verify renewable electricity used on-site and in offices. This reduces Scope 2 emissions, supports planning compliance, and demonstrates commitment to low-carbon construction practices to clients and regulators.

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    Replacing diesel with HVO or other biofuels in construction machinery reduces on-site emissions without requiring new equipment. This supports emissions reduction, air quality improvement, and compliance with local low-emission zone requirements.

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    To balance residual emissions from materials or operations, construction companies can invest in high-quality carbon credits, enabling them to deliver carbon-neutral builds or meet net zero project commitments on complex developments.
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    Larger construction firms involved in material production (e.g., cement or steel) may fall under ETS regulation. Compliance strategies are essential for managing allowances and reducing exposure to rising carbon prices.
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    Construction businesses with long-term operational energy needs — like precast plants or modular facilities — can use PPAs to secure renewable electricity, reducing lifecycle emissions and supporting net zero building certification or sustainable supply chain requirements.

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    Structured energy contracts and liquidity facilities support the construction sector by stabilising energy costs, financing green upgrades, and enabling bulk procurement of clean energy or offsets without straining project cash flow.
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    Politics and Conflict - the impact of ETS policy uncertainty and Iran on carbon prices

    Just as the EU carbon market appeared to be on a one-way trip to €100, driven by increasing speculator demand, the reality of EU ETS politics has taken centre stage in recent weeks driving prices down 20% for EUAs and 40% for UKAs. This drop has served as reminder to carbon traders that EU political views are changing. Decarbonsation is still important but not at any cost, and politicians are recognising that industry needs support with the challenges of rising carbon and energy costs. It is hard to see the flagship EU ETS, which is now 20 years old, being fundamentally changed, but there are clearly changing views on what is a "fair carbon cost". Add the impact of the latest Iran conflict on gas and carbon markets and there is a lot to consider. In our latest webinar, CFP Energy will once again be joined by leading carbon analysts, Energy Aspects, to share insights on the recent carbon market developments, how the upcoming EU ETS review and UK-EU linking negotiations may change the future price outlook. *Please note this webinar is for CFP Energy customers and invited ETS operators only. We reserve the right the cancel any registrations as appropriate.

    19 Mar 2026

    Decarbonising the Future: Navigating ETS Reforms & Net Zero Solutions

    This report draws on data from a comprehensive survey conducted by CFP Energy across large-scale organisations in the UK, Germany, and France.

    With insights from industries including aviation, data centres, shipping, construction, and manufacturing, the report highlights emerging strategies, investments, and the regulatory pressures driving the need for carbon reduction.

    Sustainable construction news

    FAQs

    The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) affects construction by increasing carbon costs for materials like steel and cement. Developers and contractors must account for embedded carbon and prioritise low-emission materials and supply chains to mitigate financial and regulatory risks under ETS compliance.

    Sustainable construction refers to designing, building, and maintaining structures using environmentally responsible practices. It includes minimising resource use, lowering carbon emissions, and ensuring energy efficiency across the lifecycle—supporting climate targets, regulatory compliance, and long-term asset resilience in the built environment.

    Achieving carbon neutral construction involves reducing embodied and operational emissions through low-carbon materials, efficient design, renewable energy use, and offsetting unavoidable emissions. Whole-life carbon assessments and sustainable procurement are critical to delivering net zero construction projects across infrastructure and real estate.

    Net zero in construction means that the total greenhouse gas emissions produced during construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning are fully eliminated or offset. It requires lifecycle carbon accounting, sustainable material choices, and integration of on-site renewables and energy efficiency technologies.

    Key regulations include the EU ETS, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities, and national building codes mandating energy efficiency and carbon reporting. Compliance drives low-carbon construction, supports funding eligibility, and ensures alignment with EU climate goals.

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