As of 2020, as stipulated by the European Union, all newly built buildings must be “almost zero-energy buildings” (ECCN – edificio de consumo casi nulo). According to the experts, heating costs can be reduced by up to 80% by improving the insulation of the house and avoiding air leakage.
The main features of this type of building:
– The sun can be used in its entirety as an energy source. A good orientation to the south and large windows are especially important in winter. It also takes into account the general climate, the location of the house, the wind direction and the surrounding vegetation.
– It has to be breathable and needs low thermal conductivity, high thermal resistance, absorbent fibers and sound insulation, high heat resistance and good fire behavior.
– The sealing of all connections between the different materials of the building prevents the uncontrolled passage of air from the inside to the outside (and vice versa).
– Windows and doors are the “weakest” elements of a building. In addition to being made of high quality materials, it is very important for windows to have good heat permeability.
– Use of renewable energies. Once energy consumption has been reduced to a minimum, it is important to use renewable energy sources. The most common are solar or photovoltaic modules. However, there are other methods that can be used in the design.
– Alternative components: sustainable materials and technology. The connectivity of all systems allows global control of the building and thus greater energy savings. In addition to minimizing these costs, it will be necessary for the houses to use ecological and healthy materials.