Towards a Sustainable Future: Assessing the Adaptation of Madrid’s Markets to New Energy Regulations
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Food markets represent a public good essential for urban supply and as intergenerational spaces supporting the small-scale economy, yet they face growing challenges in adapting to sustainability regulations and circular economy requirements. This study examines the current state of sustainability in Madrid’s municipal markets through interviews and questionnaires administered to market managers, analyzing building characteristics, renewable energy systems, passive savings strategies, and energy costs across different market typologies. Results reveal that in December 2025, only 9% of markets had solar thermal installations, while merely 11% were planning photovoltaic solar panel projects—figures insufficient to meet current EU energy efficiency mandates. The findings demonstrate a significant gap between existing infrastructure and the requirements of the Directive (EU) 2023/1791, which supersedes previous directives. These results indicate an urgent need for accelerated implementation of renewable energy systems in market buildings to achieve sustainability targets. The study contributes baseline data for developing intervention strategies that can reduce energy consumption and align Madrid’s market network with European decarbonization goals for 2030 and 2050.
Source: Energies
DOI: 10.3390/en19102411
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
Funder: Universidad Francisco de Vitoria
OpenAlex ID: W7161602628