The GACS deadline has passed. What now?

Everything you need to know about the requirement, the risks, and the fastest path to compliance.

What is GACS?

GACS stands for Building Automation and Control System (Gebouwautomatiserings- en Controlesysteem). It is a system that automatically monitors, analyzes, and adjusts your building's technical installations—heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting.

The goal: less energy waste, better insights, and smarter maintenance. The trigger: European legislation (EPBD) that the Netherlands was required to transpose into national regulations.

In concrete terms, GACS means your system must be capable of:

→ Continuously measuring and analyzing energy consumption
→ Detecting efficiency losses in installations
→ Automatically communicating with other systems within the building
→ Informing the facility manager about opportunities for improvement

Who does it apply to?

Since January 1, 2026: all non-residential buildings (offices, schools, retail, healthcare facilities, warehouses, hotels) with a heating or cooling system of 290 kW nominal capacity or more.

From January 1, 2030: the same requirement, but starting from as low as 70 kW. That will affect a much larger group—think medium-sized offices, practices, and SME commercial properties.

Residential properties are exempt. But note: if your property has a mixed-use function (partly residential, partly commercial), it may still apply.

What if you don't comply? First, a warning. Then, a fine. In the worst-case scenario: revocation of the operating permit. Enforcement is handled by the Environmental Service (Omgevingsdienst).

What can you do now?

Step 1: Check whether your property falls under the requirement. Above 290 kW? Then you must comply now. Between 70–290 kW? Then you have until 2030, but it’s smart to start now.

Step 2: Have a quick scan performed. In 10 minutes, you'll know where you stand. Mithra offers this for free, with no obligations.

Step 3: Implement the right monitoring. With non-invasive IoT sensors, you can be compliant within a day. No renovations, no downtime, no cabling.

The GACS requirement doesn't have to be a burden. It is actually an excuse to finally get a grip on your energy consumption—and save money immediately.