Innovation and development of technologies are playing a crucial role in improving the Energy Efficiency in the construction sector. In addition, renewable energies and energy consumption optimisation strategies are helping to reduce toxic gas emissions. This is particularly important in buildings, which account for a considerable part of energy consumption in cities, and where it is possible to significantly reduce energy use without compromising the comfort of inhabitants.
Since 2014, various European initiatives have promoted improvements in the energy efficiency of homes and buildings. Considerable progress has been made through funding dedicated to sustainable renovation and construction. But what are the innovations that are really making a difference in this field? Below, we will explore the main strategies and approaches that are driving the creation of more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.
Eco-innovation as a key tool in energy efficiency
Eco-innovation plays a key role in creating more energy-efficient buildings. This concept involves implementing technological improvements that not only reduce the energy consumption of buildings, but also provide economic and social benefits. According to a report by the IPM, presented in Madrid, these innovations can reduce energy consumption in heating and cooling by up to 70%. In addition, it is estimated that eco-innovation could generate up to 400.000 jobs and reduce health-related costs by more than 8.200 billion euros.
Some of the measures highlighted in this report include the implementation of energy storage systems, the installation of charging stations for electric vehicles and the renovation of buildings with sustainable criteria. These practices not only improve the sustainability of buildings, but also represent an opportunity to move towards smarter and more environmentally friendly cities.
“Energy eco-innovation is intrinsically linked to measuring the results before and after the improvements made,” says Javier García Breva, President of N2E and expert in energy policies.
However, although Spain has made significant progress in recent years, it still faces obstacles, such as the current regulations on self-consumption. While other European countries are moving towards a decentralised energy model, in which consumers can manage their own consumption, in Spain legislative barriers still hinder this process.
Revaluation of the urban environment through energy efficiency
One of the most relevant approaches in the framework of sustainability is the improvement of energy efficiency in urban areas, given that cities consume large amounts of energy. The European Commission guidelines are promoting state incentives to reduce consumption and encourage the use of technologies that integrate energy saving and renewable energies.
These measures not only benefit the environment, but also enhance the value of urban areas, improving the competitiveness of cities and providing a source of savings for their residents. A reduction in energy consumption in urban environments reduces dependence on fossil fuels, which in turn helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The value of the innovation The progress made in these efforts is notable, especially when it comes to energy-efficient buildings. Not only are these buildings more sustainable, but they also represent an opportunity to improve the real estate market. It is projected that in the coming years, buildings with low energy efficiency will be in lower demand due to their high operating costs, which will accelerate sustainable renovations and refurbishments.
Improving self-consumption and net primary energy
Improving energy efficiency in buildings is also linked to the transition towards self-consumption and the adoption of renewable energy. In Europe, a regulatory framework has been implemented that requires buildings to improve their energy efficiency through the use of advanced technologies. It is expected that by 2021, between 50% and 100% of the energy used in a building will come from renewable sources, which will significantly contribute to reducing the net primary energy.
The concept of net primary energy refers to the difference between the total energy consumed by a building and that obtained from renewable sources. Closing this gap increases the capacity of buildings to generate their own energy, thereby reducing their environmental footprint. In this context, Brussels has proposed increasing investments in energy retrofitting and in infrastructure for electric vehicles. By 2030, investment in this area is expected to triple, reaching €120.000 billion annually.
Technological innovations for energy efficiency
Technological development is essential to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. Integrated solutions, which allow consumption to be optimized without affecting the well-being of their users, are setting a global trend. Here are some of the most notable technological innovations:
- Passive building systems: They take advantage of natural resources such as wind and sunlight to reduce the building's energy needs.
- Advanced insulation materials: New materials with high thermal insulation capacity minimize energy losses in buildings.
- Intelligent energy management systems: Through advanced algorithms, IoT technology and sensors, energy consumption can be controlled in real time, generating considerable savings.
The use of these technologies, combined with the rehabilitation of existing buildings, will play a crucial role in the transition towards a more decentralized and sustainable energy model, reducing operating costs and dependence on fossil fuels.
In addition, new solutions are being promoted to turn buildings into energy generators. For example, advances in prefabricated insulation and the use of solar panels are technologies that are revolutionising the sustainable construction sector. Companies such as Ecoworks are developing panels that can completely cover old buildings and make them energy self-sufficient.
These innovations not only reduce electricity consumption, but also enable buildings to generate their own electricity, which is key to achieving zero-emissions goals.
Eco-innovation is transforming the construction and renovation of buildings, creating new employment opportunities and improving the well-being of citizens. Investing in sustainable and renewable solutions is key to moving towards a cleaner and more economically viable future.