From the series "Eco-friendly solutions and technologies—trends 2023"
At a plenary session in Strasbourg on March 14, 2023, the European Parliament (EP) adopted a position on the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). With this, MEPs took an important step toward climate neutrality and more energy-efficient buildings across the EU. The new directive (which is part of the FIT FOR 55 package to reduce EU greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030) is expected to introduce a uniform energy rating system across the EU.
Green building a way to independence and solve the climate crisis
Buildings in Europe are responsible for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions and huge energy consumption. It is estimated that real estate in the EU is responsible for as much as 36% of greenhouse gas emissions and 40% of energy consumption. The numbers are alarming, as some 75% of these buildings are energy inefficient. However, there is more than just concern for the planet behind the green revolution.
BIPV—photovoltaic roof
© ML System
The war in Ukraine has highlighted how vulnerable European families, businesses and public infrastructure are to energy price increases. Since a huge portion of the energy consumed in the EU is absorbed by buildings, it is improving the energy efficiency of this sector that can dramatically reduce our energy dependence. The entry into force of the EPBD is expected to reduce the EU's gas consumption by 47 billion cubic meters per year, meaning that the EU could completely abandon gas imports from Russia.
Energy modernization of European buildings is therefore not a cost, but an investment in our common future.
Solar technologies in the service of zero-carbon buildings
According to the aforementioned draft directive, from 2028 all new buildings are to be zero-emission. New buildings occupied or operated by or belonging to public authorities will have to be zero-emission even earlier, as early as 2026. A zero-emission building is characterized by net zero energy consumption, so the total amount of energy it uses per year is equal to the amount of renewable energy generated at the site. This effect cannot be achieved without photovoltaic installations, which are a source of electricity. Photovoltaics will therefore have a special place in the plans considered by the European Parliament.
White carports, multi-family housing
© ML System
Photovoltaics are not just panels on the roof
Traditional rooftop photovoltaic installations are often perceived as an unsightly addition to an existing building. The ideal answer to the demand for zero-emission, green building is BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) technology, i.e. photovoltaics integrated into buildings, or, more precisely explained, solutions that are a substitute for traditional building materials. BIPV is a structural element of the building, meets the same parameters in terms of resistance, fire safety or thermal insulation as classical materials, but the unquestionable advantage of this technology is the conversion of solar energy into electricity.
Railway station in Sanok, photovoltaic roofing
© ML System
Energy-producing buildings
Zero-carbon construction can only be achieved by introducing renewable energy sources. Triple-glazed windows and wall insulation are not enough. It is necessary to implement innovative, efficient solutions in the production of which the Polish technology company ML System has specialized for almost two decades. The company's offer includes:
- photovoltaic glass facades and façade panels,
- photovoltaic blinds,
- photovoltaic skylights,
- photovoltaic roof tiles,
- photovoltaic glazing,
- carports, pergolas, small architecture solutions (benches, lamps) that produce free energy from the sun.
Academic Campus, Osijek, Chovacija—photovoltaic facade
© ML System
These solutions are a combination of ecology and aesthetics, economy and prestige, modernity and rationality. They can be applied to both newly built and modernized buildings. They are fully certified in terms of building, electrical and environmental standards (including EPD declaration). They pass rigorous tests for non-flammability and resistance to weather and aggressive environments. They are covered by a Polish manufacturer's warranty. Their performance and durability are the result of years of research at ML System's laboratory.
Norwegian Petroleum Directorate, Stavanger, Norway—photovoltaic facade, white BIPV modules
© ML System
Green building trends for 2023 only?
Wanting to list green building trends for both this year (2023) and the years to come, one thing should be emphasized: the effects of the materials and technologies used in this industry will be felt for years to come. Saving resources and using renewable energy sources should therefore always be the overriding trend. All these factors contribute to the rationality of investment in BIPV solutions. Solutions that are indispensable in the process of the necessary and accelerated energy transition, and thus ensure a secure future for future generations.
For more information, visit the company's ML SYSTEM S.A. page on the PdA portal.
