Energy renovation of buildings and its role in sustainability

What is the purpose of energy retrofitting for buildings?

Energy retrofitting for buildings or homes represents a highly profitable investment in the long term, bringing with it a series of tangible benefits for both owners and occupants:

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• Energy cost reduction: Implementing energy efficiency improvements significantly reduces annual energy expenses, freeing up resources for other important uses.

• Increased property value: A building with a good energy rating is more attractive on the market, which can lead to a higher value. Furthermore, it's a quality increasingly sought after by investors and buyers who value sustainability.

• Economic viability and profitability: Energy-efficient buildings not only reduce operational costs but also become more profitable and economically viable in the long term.
• Reduced carbon emissions: Energy retrofitting is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generation. This directly contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and promotes a more sustainable future.
• Improved indoor comfort: Efficient management of a building's internal temperature and environment significantly improves through energy retrofitting, optimizing its performance and functionality.‍
• Energy independence: Improving energy efficiency reduces reliance on external energy resources, which protects buildings from price fluctuations in the energy market and provides greater long-term financial stability.

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Keys to effective energy retrofitting

Interventions classified as energy retrofitting are those that achieve a significant reduction, at least 30%, in non-renewable primary energy consumption, or that manage to raise the building's energy rating to an "A" or "B" class. It is essential to have an energy efficiency certificate updated, issued by a competent technician before and after the works, to verify these advancements.

Airtightness

Airtightness acts like the building's skin, controlling the entry and exit of air to prevent unwanted drafts. Although some constructions might seem to benefit from poorly sealed joints to 'improve' ventilation, in reality, good airtightness is fundamental for any construction aiming to be energy efficient.

Insulation

Insulation is crucial for limiting heat transfer between the interior and exterior of a building. Depending on the location, orientation, and materials used in construction, insulation efficiency can vary significantly. Reinforcing thermal insulation is one of the most effective steps in any energy renovation, encompassing improvements to floors, roofs, facades, and interior partitions.

Ventilation

An efficient ventilation system is vital for minimizing energy consumption. Ideally, installed systems should not only provide an adequate flow of fresh air but also effectively manage stale air extraction and humidity control. Options include hybrid ventilation, which combines natural and mechanical mechanisms depending on climatic conditions, and mechanical ventilation, which relies entirely on electromechanical devices to renew the air.

Thermal bridges

Thermal bridges refer to those areas, whether point or linear, where thermal resistance is interrupted, facilitating heat transfer. These areas lead to energy losses that negatively impact both insulation and the building's overall energy efficiency.

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Is energy retrofitting of buildings mandatory?

The objectives of the European Green Deal state that by 2050, a carbon-neutral footprintmust be achieved. To accomplish this, both consumption habits and the facilities of many properties need to adapt to new energy efficiency standards. Although energy retrofitting of existing buildings is not currently mandatory, this may change in the coming years. In Spain, the goal for 2030 is for 30% of buildingsto meet the requirements of the energy retrofitting plan, a somewhat less ambitious goal than that of the European Union, which aims for higher figures.

The current situation in Spain presents a worrying picture: only 16% of buildings have an energy efficiency label better than E, F, and G. Even more alarming is the fact that barely 0.30% of properties boast the highest energy rating, i.e., labels A or B. These statistics highlight the urgent need to implement a national energy renovation plan to improve building efficiency.

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