A recent study published in the journal Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews suggests that by utilizing state-of-the-art energy efficiency technologies, Europe’s construction sector could significantly reduce its carbon emissions by 2060. The research, which is the first of its kind to fully assess the potential for energy demand reduction in the construction sectors of the United Kingdom and all European Union member states, highlights that 75% of Europe’s building stock is currently classified as energy inefficient. Despite this, employing technologies like solar energy and heat pumps in both residential and non-residential properties could lead to a reduction in the total energy used to heat and cool buildings by up to 97%.
The researchers emphasize that with concerns over energy security on the rise, particularly in light of recent geopolitical events, adopting these energy efficiency technologies could not only reduce energy costs but also enhance people’s health and quality of life. Moreover, transitioning towards a net-zero building sector presents significant potential to mitigate the impacts of climate change and play a crucial role in meeting the targets outlined in the Paris Agreement and other global climate goals. Lead author Dr. Souran Chatterjee, Lecturer in Energy Transitions at the University of Plymouth, notes the importance of taking action promptly, as delaying the implementation of energy efficiency measures may hinder our ability to achieve climate targets in the long run.
The researchers utilized a mathematical model known as the High-Efficiency Building (HEB) energy model to calculate the energy demand reduction potential and the feasibility of achieving net-zero status in the building sector for both the UK and each of the European Union member states. Their calculations revealed that by aiming for ambitious net-zero targets, the energy required for cooling residential buildings across Europe could be reduced by up to 86% by 2050, with a similar reduction of around 76% for non-residential properties. This could be particularly advantageous for countries like Italy, France, Greece, and Spain, where air conditioning is commonly used in building projects.
In terms of heating, the study showed that aiming for ambitious targets could lead to a reduction in energy demand of more than 80% by 2050, while for hot water, the energy demand could be cut by approximately 50%. By incorporating more heat pumps and on-site energy production in future residential developments, the demand savings for both heating and hot water could increase to approximately 90%. However, if comprehensive renovations and efficient constructions are not implemented, the total thermal energy demand of the building sector may increase by up to 7% by 2060.
Overall, the study underscores the potential of energy efficiency technologies in transforming Europe’s construction sector and reducing its carbon footprint significantly. By leveraging these technologies, the sector can contribute to mitigating the impacts of climate change, achieving climate neutrality targets, and improving people’s health and well-being. The findings highlight the urgency of taking action promptly to implement energy efficiency measures, emphasizing the importance of harnessing the benefits of these technologies to create a sustainable and environmentally friendly built environment for the future.