Low Energy

Low energy topics first emerged in the 1970s. The then-developing nations, like Denmark and Germany, started research on this subject in response to the power crises at that time. Since then, global developers have started to adapt measures to meet growing demand and lower negative impacts on the climate. The advancement of technology has helped in this pursuit. 

What is the meaning of low energy in construction?

Low energy in construction means any structure that uses minimum power through certain materials and designs. This is all to help counteract the growing amount of power that fuels high-rise buildings. For example, the amount of electricity used in a high-rise building is higher than that of a small house.

Low energy use is applied in each phase of the structure-making process. The plan is to either rely on passive or active design tactics. The former refers to optimising natural forces, like sunlight, wind, and temperature. The latter uses mechanical and lighting systems to add air quality, heating, and ventilation to a building.

Five ways to lower energy use

Applying low-energy plans in construction projects brings many benefits. It consumes a lesser amount of power, which translates into lower bills to pay at the end of the month. Such a scheme raises the value of the property. Renters and investors won’t mind spending more money because the property offers them more comfort and a better lifestyle.

In terms of the environment, low energy structures produce lower carbon emissions, which can lead to less pollution overall. The scheme makes more use of renewable power sources and reduces dependence on fossil ones. Therefore, this enables the public to sustain the Earth for many years to come. Below is the list of ways to achieve the goals.

1. Passive Solar Design

Sunlight is such a vast energy source that, however, in winter, the daytime is considerably less. This leads to lower energy production overall. During this season, most buildings will switch on heaters. Sunlight can replace that and hence save so much power. Summer requires a different approach. Simple ways, like orienting windows and doors, can cool the structure so you won’t need AC.

2. Airtightness and insulation

The two make a structure efficient and low energy power use. Airtightness means ensuring the air circulates well in the building and preventing it from leaking. Insulation refers to keeping air inside the building by using materials such as fibreglass and foam. Both during winter and summer, the materials maintain the temperature at a reasonable degree. Then, the residents feel comfortable inside. 

3. Renewable energy

Modern buildings start using on-site renewable, low-energy sources. The top examples include solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems. Solar panel means converting sunlight into electrical power via photovoltaic (PV) in the form of solar cells or panels. Wind turbines, on the other hand, change wind energy into electricity. The geothermal system makes use of the heat inside the Earth.

4. Green power deal

If the third option seems costly and complex, a construction project can work with a low energy power provider. This business deal offers short and long-term benefits. You need to check on the pricing scheme before signing the deal proposal. One thing is for sure: such an idea is a good property investment for all parties.

5. Recycle measures

Attaining these goals can be as simple as strictly applying recycling efforts. The building management provides dustbins that differ in waste type. It upholds recycling practices to reduce waste. In addition, it needs to spread the message to all of its tenants so they can do it on their own.

Challenges in low energy scheme

Despite the benefits, low energy construction comes with some problems. It requires a high upfront investment that may burden some developers. The money usually covers materials, technology, and engineering. All of these are more expensive than conventional ones. Another problem lies in the lack of awareness of this issue by some stakeholders, especially developers and project owners.

They haven’t fully realised the effects of the low energy scheme. Those impacts are varied and tremendous, as mentioned above. This results in their resistance to this idea. Usually, they only consider the budget side and nothing else. Therefore, they oppose the method once they think it costs more money. The last relates to the policy, which differs from one country to another.

Ideally, every regulation details building codes and guidelines to conform to all structure constructions. Each government needs to provide incentives for developers who comply with the low energy policies. However, this initiative later requires nationwide budget adjustments that may impact the allocations of other departments. To make it a national issue, all departments need to sit down together and draw up an agreement on this.