26. Paradoxes Between Energy Labeling and Efficiency in Buildings

Buildings are responsible for 40% of the energy consumption and around 36% of CO₂ emissions in the European Union. Administrations are funding projects enhancing energy efficiency to achieve a zero-emission building. As a consequence, many companies perceive the business potential. Several public buildings are analyzed by comparing their energy rating labels against their real energy consumption. Results show that highly rated buildings are also the ones with higher consumption. This study analyzes and discusses the factors that end up in this paradox. Results show that new buildings consume more energy, which is caused by higher interior-comfort standards. Moreover, control systems that should warrant optimal functionality of the building consume non-negligible amounts of energy. Finally, technical exigencies on buildings have increased in recent years. In conclusion, project management should incorporate the structure, control, security, and comfort systems together in the design phase. Moreover, this phase should also include the operating definition of the building during the day and throughout seasons of the year.