Energy efficiency in construction: what has changed with the new European standards?
Energy efficiency in construction has become one of the sector’s key pillars in Europe. With the development of European directives – in particular the revision of the EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive) – buildings are now viewed not merely as physical structures, but as integrated energy systems.
Given that buildings account for a significant proportion of energy consumption and carbon emissions, the European Union has been imposing increasingly stringent requirements. The aim is clear: to reduce consumption, improve performance and move towards a zero-emission building stock by 2050.
New European energy efficiency requirements
Transition to near-zero and zero-emission buildings
One of the key changes introduced by the new European standards concerns the shift in the concept of energy efficiency towards a model of nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEB) and, progressively, zero-emission buildings (ZEB).
In practice, this means that buildings are now designed to require very little energy, with this requirement being met largely by renewable sources. This approach necessitates greater integration between architecture, engineering and technical systems, right from the initial design stage.
With the implementation of the new directive, the deadlines are clear: new public buildings must meet net-zero emissions criteria from 2028 onwards, and from 2030 this requirement will extend to all new buildings. This development is driving a significant shift in the way projects are designed, requiring more efficient solutions in terms of thermal insulation, HVAC systems and energy management.
Energy consumption reduction targets
In addition to the requirements applicable to new buildings, the European Union has set specific targets for reducing energy consumption in the existing building stock. These targets aim for a gradual reduction in consumption, with specific targets set for 2030 and 2035.
This framework underscores the importance of energy-efficient refurbishment, which now plays a central role in the European strategy. Interventions in existing buildings are no longer merely a matter of maintenance or aesthetic enhancement, but now incorporate clear objectives regarding energy efficiency and performance.
New energy assessment criteria
Another key aspect of this transformation relates to the way in which the energy performance of buildings is assessed. The new standards introduce a more comprehensive approach, which goes beyond direct energy consumption to take into account the environmental impact throughout the building’s life cycle.
This places greater demands on the selection of materials, the design of construction solutions and the integration of technical systems. Energy efficiency is no longer an isolated factor but has become a cross-cutting element throughout the entire project.
Energy certification: more stringent and more relevant
The role of the energy performance certificate
In Portugal, energy certification has been playing an increasingly important role, not only as a legal requirement but also as a tool for assessing and valuing properties. The energy performance certificate allows a building’s performance to be classified and opportunities for improvement to be identified; it is mandatory in situations such as buying, selling or renting.
More than just a formal document, certification has come to reflect the technical quality of a building, influencing investment decisions and users’ expectations.
Changes brought about by the new legislation
With the transposition of European directives into national law, minimum requirements have become more stringent and certification has come to play a greater role in the construction process. Today, energy efficiency can no longer be viewed as a final step – it is a factor that must be taken into account from the very start of a project.
This change requires greater coordination between the various disciplines and greater precision in the execution of the works, ensuring that the performance specified in the design is effectively reflected in the building’s actual behaviour.
Energy certification as a factor in increasing property value
Developments in the property market reveal a clear trend: energy-efficient buildings are more highly valued. As well as offering lower running costs, they provide greater comfort and a longer lifespan.
Conversely, properties with poor energy performance tend to lose their competitive edge, which underscores the importance of incorporating energy-efficient solutions right from the design stage.
Impact on costs and property value
Initial investment vs long-term savings
In many cases, adopting energy-efficient solutions involves a higher initial investment. This increase stems from the use of more efficient materials, more advanced technical systems and higher standards in both design and implementation.
However, this difference tends to be offset over time. Lower energy costs, combined with reduced maintenance requirements, mean that the investment translates into real savings over the building’s lifecycle.
Increase in the property’s market value
Energy efficiency has become a key factor in property value appreciation. A well-designed building with good energy performance is not only more attractive to potential buyers or tenants, but also offers better prospects for long-term value appreciation.
This factor is particularly relevant in competitive markets, where differentiation increasingly hinges on the technical quality and performance of the property.
Thermal comfort and quality of life
In addition to economic considerations, energy efficiency has a direct impact on user comfort. A well-insulated building with appropriate systems provides more stable temperatures, better indoor air quality and a significant reduction in problems such as damp or condensation.
These factors contribute to a better user experience and underscore the importance of an integrated approach to the project.
Energy efficiency in construction has moved beyond being merely a trend to become a fundamental requirement of the sector. New European standards are redefining not only technical requirements, but also the way in which buildings are designed and valued.
Building today requires a long-term vision, in which efficiency, sustainability and quality go hand in hand. It is against this backdrop that J.A. Duarte & Filho keeps pace with developments in the sector, incorporating technical solutions that ensure not only compliance with current requirements, but also the durability and performance of projects over time.
