The Technical Building Code (CTE) in Spain sets the minimum energy-saving guidelines that newly constructed buildings must adhere to, with a revision carried out in 2019. This code outlines energy-saving guidelines and encourages the adoption of technologies based on renewable sources.
The determination of a building's energy efficiency is based on recording the annual energy consumption under standard usage and occupancy conditions, considering factors like heating, hot water, ventilation, and lighting. These records translate into final consumption values, represented in kilowatt-hours per square meter (kWh/m2 year) and CO2 emissions per square meter of the building (kg CO2/m2 year). These values align with a specific letter on the energy efficiency scale for buildings. Therefore, to assess a building's energy efficiency, indicators such as annual CO2 emissions and the annual consumption of non-sustainable primary energy are considered, including annual heating demands and annual emissions, among others.
Based on the data obtained from the dwelling, the energy certificate is prepared, assigning a letter that reflects the building's energy rating, ranging from A to G. A home with high efficiency, categorized with the letter (A), can consume up to 90% less energy compared to one with the lowest rating. A type B dwelling reduces its consumption by approximately 70%, while a type C does so by 35%. Clearly, a building with a high energy rating is more efficient in terms of consumption than one with a lower rating. This efficiency is achieved thanks to the implementation of various strategies that collectively minimize the building's overall energy consumption.
There are various aids to help buildings meet the minimum energy-saving guidelines:
• Assistance and financing from the Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving (IDAE): IDAE offers financial assistance and financing at reduced rates for the implementation of green energy systems in recent constructions, such as photovoltaic solar panels, solar heating systems, and geothermal solutions. These incentives aim to alleviate the initial costs of incorporating such innovations.
• Tax benefits: Spanish authorities provide tax advantages to individuals and corporations that choose sustainable energy systems, encompassing deductions and bonuses for purchasing and implementing solar panels, wind turbines, and other clean energy solutions.
• Standardized prices: Spain has set fixed prices for green energy, guaranteeing a constant value for electricity produced from sustainable sources. This can make clean energy ventures more profitable and appealing to financiers.
• Tenders: Additionally, Spain organizes tenders for sustainable energy ventures, where developers can compete for contracts to supply electricity to the national grid. These tenders can help reduce the cost of clean energy and boost competition in the industry.
• Shared accounting: In Spain, shared accounting is allowed for smaller-scale green energy systems, allowing users to balance their electricity bills by returning surplus energy to the system. This can represent an economic incentive for individuals and corporations to opt for sustainable energy.
While the Spanish regulations of 2023 recognize a wide range of energy systems, they show a clear interest in promoting energy efficiency in constructions. In this way, it sets efficiency standards for new buildings. This goal is achieved through the promotion of clean technologies, such as solar panels, aerothermal and geothermal solutions, complemented by optimization in architectural design and the implementation of effective insulation and air circulation strategies.
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