Energy efficient buildings must become the new normal

The Long-Term Renovation Strategy is a recently launched strategic framework for the renovation of the building stock over a 30-year period, from 2020 to 2050. Energy efficient houses is at the core of this strategy. It is imperative that all those involved in the construction sector embrace this strategy towards the building and construction of energy efficient buildings.

The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) is at the forefront of this strategy. A course, entitled ‘Energy Performance of Dwellings in Malta’ is being offered to holders of a degree in architecture and/or civil, built environment, building services, mechanical or electrical engineering at MQF level 6 recognized by the University of Malta or equivalent.

Upon the successful completion of this course, which includes a two-day CPD course qualification, one becomes an assessor of buildings. This would enable participants to survey buildings which need to be considered in the Energy Performance Certificate calculations.

Insulation levels, the ventilation features and the type of cooling and heating systems, and apertures, shall be surveyed. Buildings have a long-lasting effect on the environment – many times years after the building has been demolished. Robust economic growth, and affluence, led to a higher demand for dwellings, and dwellings that provide their occupants with the necessary comforts of the modern world. Design and construction changed quickly over a span of a few years. New technologies and materials in the building and construction of dwellings have been introduced. A paradigm shift has been made from the traditional robust architecture to a slenderer one. Buildings have grown taller – six storey buildings, and higher, have become the norm.

The depletion of natural resources happened at a sporadic rate with dependence on energy consumption becoming the norm. This has had its toll on natural resources. Solutions were needed, and fast. Measures had to be taken to lessen the demand on natural resources and ensure sustainability. The reduction of greenhouse gases was deemed urgent and necessary. The sustainable construction movement gained traction and is today international in scope.

In 2010, the European parliament approved the Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings. In 2021, all member states were required to establish National building renovation plans. The European Union’s greenhouse gas emissions are expected to be reduced by 55% by 2030. “The depletion of Consumers are now expected to know the energy natural resources performance rating of their happened at a property, be it a property they purchase, or one that they rent sporadic rate with – with these ratings performed dependence on by qualified assessors. The latter have a pivotal role in energy consumption becoming the norm." recommending ways and means on how to improve a buildings energy efficient levels, and in so doing reduce the energy expenses and carbon dioxide emissions from the buildings. Energy efficient buildings must become the new normal. Our planet demands it. Our natural resources deserve it and our consumers would live in a better, healthier, and more sustainable world when this happens. It is an urgent matter which cannot be postponed. It comes at a high cost, environmentally, and financially, if we do. n