German
Energy Efficiency
No construction lasts forever and at a moment in time, every building needs to be renovated and repaired. Maintenance can however be performed in many different ways as it can be either reactive or proactive. Renovating buildings to reach a higher energy performance - or in other words: to better use the energy that is needed for heating, cooling, ventilation etc. - can be very cost-effective in the long run and can contribute to decrease the waste of energy.
To use less non-renewable energy will have a positive impact on climate change, and it can also contribute to better energy security. It can also enhance the quality of life for people living and working in the buildings. Economically, investments in renovating buildings create new jobs and lower the long-term energy-costs for both households and real estate owners. An energy efficient renovation of a building is an ongoing process that has many challenges to overcome, both in terms of financial planning and technical development. It is an area of huge interest, involving architects, investors, contractors, energy specialists, environmental organizations and other stakeholders.
Construction: When renovating old houses, there is often the possibility to improve the shell of the buildings, i.e. the facade, windows etc. Different techniques and materials can be used for a better distribution of the indoor temperature with less energy used for heating, cooling and ventilation.
Systems: In most buildings there is a need for mechanical systems to control heating, cooling and ventilation. Improving the shell of the building is usually not enough. Alternative and more efficient systems are required.
Economy: Large parts of the European housing stock was built for accommodating the growing populations in European cities. These buildings face great needs for renovation as the majority of them do have very low energy efficiency. At the same time the demand for housing is increasing and austerity measures in Europe are intensifying the problem.

Energy efficiency directive, Energy performance certificate, Alternative energy heating systems, Housing renovation, Energy-saving measures

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