Europe is facing a dual crisis—an escalating housing shortage and a pressing need to reduce carbon emissions. With over 900,000 people homeless each night and 30 million vacant homes across Europe, the paradox is striking: while many struggle without adequate shelter, millions of properties remain unused. At the same time, residential buildings account for 36% of CO₂ emissions and 40% of energy consumption in the EU.
As climate change continues to impact our planet, transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar power (PV) has never been more urgent. Not only do these sources help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but they also enhance energy independence. This is where the SUNRISE project comes in.
As Bulgaria continues to embrace renewable energy (RE) solutions, the differences in financial readiness, awareness, and willingness to invest between neighborhoods highlight the need for tailored approaches to energy transition. A recent assessment of two multifamily residential buildings—one in Zaharna Fabrika and another in Knyazhevo—provides valuable insights into the factors influencing RE adoption and the steps needed to bridge existing gaps. The research is part of the SUNRISE project.
Lithuania has made significant strides toward achieving a climate-neutral economy by 2050, with renewable energy (RE) at the heart of this transition. However, while the country continues to expand its RE capacity, some key challenges remain—especially for homeowners in multi-family buildings. A recent study highlights how legal, financial, and informational barriers are slowing the adoption of small-scale renewable energy solutions, despite a growing interest in energy efficiency upgrades. The research is part of the SUNRISE project.
Habitat for Humanity and SeaFreight Labs launched a new global open-innovation challenge to try to dramatically reduce malaria infections by targeting where most infections begin: at home. The challenge, which runs through 7 July 2025, includes a US$24,000 prize pool.
Kyiv, Ukraine (March 27, 2025) – Ukrainian Financial Housing Company and Habitat for Humanity in Ukraine sign Memorandum of Understanding for promoting sustainable housing finance in Ukraine and affordable housing for vulnerable people of Ukraine. The signing took place on 27 March in Kyiv as part of the First Affordable Mortgage Forum organised by the Ukrainian Financial Housing Company (UFHC) with the support of the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine.
Croatia is facing a paradox: while housing costs are rising and many young people are locked out of the rental and ownership markets, nearly a third of all homes meant for permanent residence sit empty. This contrast lies at the heart of a new research report on the country’s housing landscape—one that uncovers not just the challenges, but the untapped opportunities for creating more inclusive, sustainable communities.
Hungary’s housing landscape presents a striking contradiction. Despite a growing number of dwellings—over 4.5 million—more than 570,000 stand vacant, while nearly 3 million people struggle with housing poverty. At the same time, the country’s population continues to shrink, creating a disconnect between where homes exist and where they’re needed most. A new research study from Habitat for Humanity Hungary takes a deep dive into this complex picture, offering an eye-opening look at how a more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable housing future might be built—quite literally—out of empty spaces.
In January 2026 a new housing law was adopted in the second reading in Ukraine’s parliament. This marks the beginning of a major housing reform, something that has not happened for over 30 years in the country.
New Bill No. 12377, “On the Basic Principles of Housing Policy,” replaces the 1983 Soviet-era Housing Code, includes the establishment of social housing, new financial mechanisms to support the construction and purchase of housing, digitalization of processes, as well as putting vulnerable people and their specific needs as a priority. It is now awaiting Presidential approval and signature to come into effect.