Green Buildings are energy efficient buildings that provide year-round comfort without the constant need for heating and cooling systems. These homes save you money and they’re great for the environment, so it can only be a good thing if they become more popular.
The new directive will improve energy efficiency in buildings and encourage building renovation. Decarbonizing the existing highly inefficient European building stock is one of its long term goals. It promotes cost-effective renovation works, introduces a smartness indicator for buildings, simplifies the inspections of heating and air condition systems and also promotes electro-mobility by creating parking spaces for electric vehicles.
Modern comfort comes at a price, and keeping all those air conditioners, refrigerators, chargers, and water heaters going makes household energy very expensive. Here’s what uses the most energy in your home:
Cooling and heating: 47% of energy use
Water heater: 14% of energy use
Washer and dryer: 13% of energy use
Lighting: 12% of energy use
Refrigerator: 4% of energy use
Electric oven: 3-4% of energy use
TV, DVD, cable box: 3% of energy use
Dishwasher: 2% of energy use
Computer: 1% of energy use
One of the easiest ways to reduce wasted energy and money? Shut off vampire electronics, devices that suck power even when they are turned off. A penny saved is a penny earned, and being more efficient with your energy use is good for your pocketbook and the environment.
Buildings account for 40% of the total energy consumption in Europe. By improving the existing rules, taking advantage of recent technological developments and encouraging further energy efficiency, the EU makes a major step towards fulfilling its 2020 and 2030 energy efficiency targets.
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