Incentive policies play a crucial role in encouraging the adoption of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures. This study analyzes and compares the incentives for energy transition in the South Tyrol region of Italy using a marginal abatement cost (MAC) curve constructed with an expert-based approach. The incentives for residential energy efficiency, mobility, and boiler replacement are characterized based on assumptions for costs, energy savings, and parameters. The resulting expert-based MAC curve analysis reveals boiler replacement incentives to be the most cost-effective, yielding CO₂ reductions at the lowest cost but with limited potential as the incentive is limited to apartment blocks that are not in district heating areas. Mobility incentives enabling electric vehicle adoption have the highest CO₂ reduction potential, albeit at higher costs per ton abated. Residential energy efficiency incentives fall between the two for cost-effectiveness and potential. The MAC curve approach provides a useful comparison of cost-effectiveness versus potential, guiding policy prioritization. This techno-economic assessment methodology can be applied to other regions pursuing energy transition. Overall, a balanced policy mix encompassing transport, buildings, and heating is required for comprehensive low-carbon transition.

The building sector contributes significantly to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, with many buildings being energy inefficient. In response, the European Green Deal promotes improving energy efficiency to support decarbonization goals. However, managing energy consumption and integrating data from multiple sources presents challenges, especially for large building portfolios. This study introduces a novel methodology designed to optimize energy renovation strategies, balancing technical, financial, and maintenance considerations. The methodology is implemented in CERPlan 1.0, a web-based decision-support platform that combines data on building energy performance, renovation costs, and maintenance needs. Through simulations, CERPlan 1.0 helps decision-makers prioritize retrofit interventions based on economic criteria while leveraging synergies between energy improvements and regular maintenance. Application of this methodology to real estate portfolios reveals opportunities to enhance cost-effectiveness and energy savings. The results show that integrating maintenance into renovation planning reduces payback times and allows for more comprehensive renovation strategies. The conclusions highlight CERPlan 1.0’s potential to improve decision-making, making building renovations more efficient and sustainable.