WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2014
Energy efficiency will sweep across Europe’s buildings to the tune of nearly $800 billion in the years ahead, a new report forecasts.
“Energy-Efficient Buildings: Europe,by Navigant Research, analyzes and forecasts the market for residential and commercial building energy-efficient products and services in Europe.
According to the report, the annual market for building energy efficient products and services in Europe is currently estimated at $56 billion in 2014, a figure that is expected to rise to $109 billion in 2023. Cumulatively, the forecast figures total $791.7 billion across the whole period.
Navigant Research |
The European Union, along with Norway and Switzerland, are projected to spend $800 billion on energy-efficient products and services between 2014 and 2023. |
“The EED aims to achieve 20 percent improvements in energy efficiency, carbon emissions, and the penetration of renewable energy,” principal research analyst Eric Bloom said in an announcement.
“Although we believe it is likely to fall short of its goals, it will play a big role, along with the EPBD, in expanding the energy-efficient buildings market across the region.”
LoboStudioHamburg / Pixabay |
Many European buildings are centuries old and lacking in energy efficiency. |
The report also discusses the factors that enhance or hinder the market on a European and regional basis, along with technology drivers for increased building energy performance.
The report groups the 28 member states of the European Union, plus Norway and Switzerland, into five regions: Northwest Europe, Western Europe, Scandinavia, Southern Europe, and Eastern Europe.
Market Issues
According to the report, the policies for energy efficiency in Europe are among the most rigid in the world.
Each member of the EU is required to draft national-level legislation to fulfill mandates and directives. Countries vary in the scope of their programs, with Northern European countries leading the way.
The market is hindered by factors that affect energy efficiency globally:
Technology Issues
Technology can also be a hindrance in Europe’s energy-efficiency drive, as buildings across the region range dramatically in age and each country has its own approach for commercial and residential structures.
Green Building Advisor |
Single-pane windows are a major cause of energy loss for buildings, an issue the EU is attempting to improve in its member countries. |
Other areas that pose technology challenges include:
Product and Service Vendors
According to the report, the product side of the market is led by a large number of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), many of which are based in Europe.
The OEMs are expanding their services, paving the way for increased revenues in that sector.
Many of these OEMs also act as energy service companies that provide performance contracts for energy efficiency. This allows the manufacturers to guarantee the level of energy savings customers can expect, the report said.
Tagged categories: Building envelope; Building Envelope; Energy efficiency; Green building; Lighting; Thermal emittance; Windows