Buildings
Buildings use a lot of energy, so it’s no surprise they’re responsible for 30–40 percent of CO2 emissions. The challenge involves two tasks—creating new buildings that are carbon neutral, and retrofitting all existing buildings to eliminate their carbon footprint.
The first task is easier. In Germany, Passivhaus homes consume 95 percent less energy for heating and cooling by using super insulation, solar gain, and efficient heat recovery. There are 6,000 homes in Europe built to Passivhaus specifications. Building codes should require that all new houses are built to this standard.
The challenge is much tougher for existing buildings. Most building owners could achieve a 20 to 50 percent reduction in energy use by investing in new windows, super-insulation, heat-recovery systems, and efficient appliances and boilers. Solar PV and solar hot water can be added, and carbon-neutral heat can be obtained from heat exchange with the air, earth, water, and sewage.
To encourage building innovation and rapid renovation, we need tax credits, self-financing mechanisms, and rules that create incentive to build differently. It’s just a matter of vision and determination.
- Efficient lighting
- Efficient appliances
- Home energy conservation and retrofits
- Commercial and industrial energy conservation
- Smart metering
