Energy Performance Certification of Buildings: A Policy Tool to Improve Energy Efficiency
Introduction
- Scope: The International Energy Agency (IEA) Policy Pathway series provides detailed guidance on implementing specific recommendations from the IEA’s 25 Energy Efficiency Policy Recommendations.
- Purpose: The pathway aims to help policymakers and relevant stakeholders implement energy performance certification programs effectively.
Key Points
- Energy Use in Buildings: Buildings account for approximately 40% of energy use in most countries.
- Potential Savings: By 2050, estimated energy savings could reach 1,509 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe).
- Environmental Impact: Improving energy efficiency in buildings can significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, potentially mitigating up to 12.6 gigatonnes (Gt) of CO2 emissions by 2050.
What is Energy Performance Certification of Buildings?
- Objective: To provide objective information on a building's energy performance.
- Benefits:
- Energy and CO2 Emissions Reductions
- Increased Public Awareness
- Lower Costs for Users
- Improved Data Collection
Implementation Steps
-
Plan
- Define goals and objectives.
- Identify target buildings and stakeholders.
- Develop a communication strategy.
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Implement
- Conduct energy performance assessments.
- Issue building certificates.
- Communicate through energy performance labels.
-
Monitor
- Track progress and outcomes.
- Adjust strategies based on feedback.
-
Evaluate
- Assess the effectiveness of the program.
- Identify areas for improvement.
Case Studies
- Ireland: Key guidance from the Irish implementation.
- Portugal: Key guidance from the Portuguese implementation.
Importance of Energy Certification
- Raising Awareness: Helps raise awareness about energy consumption.
- Addressing Market Failures: Addresses inefficiencies in the market.
- Complementary Measures: Enhances the impact of certification through additional initiatives.
Conclusion
- Summary: Energy performance certification is a crucial tool for improving energy efficiency in buildings, contributing significantly to energy savings and environmental sustainability.
Acknowledgements
- Contributors: A team of IEA experts and external contributors developed this pathway, including Kevin O’Rourke, Eduardo Maldonado, and others.
- Editors: The publication was edited by Janine Treves and Ilze Raath, with graphic design by Corinne Hayworth.
This summary provides a clear overview of the key points and implementation steps for energy performance certification of buildings, highlighting its importance and potential benefits.
