Ever since the introduction of the obligation to declare the energy class of dwellings when renting and buying, the subject has been the focus of some attention. A focus which has been revived recently, since the discussion on the minimum energy class targets wanted by the European Union for the coming years.
Green house regulation and energy certification
Although the cited standard is still under discussion (follow its development here), the general guidelines are quite clear. Basically, there are three indications: residential buildings are expected to reach energy class E by 2030, then D by 2033; for other buildings the deadlines are 2027 for class E and 2030 for class D, while new buildings must be zero-emission by 2028.
At this point we need to ask ourselves where we are in our country.
Energy classes in Italian homes
According to the Report on the Energy Certification of Buildings 2022 drawn up by ENEA in collaboration with the Italian Thermotechnical Committee, “almost 60% of the cases analysed in 2021 in the residential sector (first and second homes) are characterised by poor energy performance, although the comparison with 2020 shows a reduction in the percentage of buildings in energy classes F and G by around 2%, in favour of those in classes C-E (+0.5%) and A4-B (+1.5%).”
This information was acquired by cross-referencing data from the SIAPE and those provided by the Autonomous Regions and Provinces. Another interesting aspect is that the non-residential sector has better APEs, with higher energy classes.
But what does this mean, beyond the regulatory aspects?
What does it mean in practice to have a better energy class?
The fundamental reason to look for a better energy class is that the classification is linked to energy consumption, in particular to an indicator called Global Energy Performance (EPGL), which indicates how many kWh per square metre are needed to air-condition the room, ventilate it and produce domestic hot water. It goes without saying that a better energy class (A, for example) indicates lower consumption. For example, the EPGL for class A4, the best ever, is 0.4. For class G it is 3.5, which means, as an approximation, that a house in energy class A4 consumes just over a tenth of that in class G. In short, it is first and foremost a question of expenditure.
How to improve the energy class?
Depending on the range, it is possible to identify distinctive features of different energy classes. Starting with the least valuable, energy class G is reserved for buildings constructed before the 1970s, with no particular focus on energy saving. In class F we find window frames with reduced thermal insulation, uninsulated roofs and so on. The first saving measures are found in classes C and D, with the presence of condensing boilers and thermostatic valves. In short, if a home is currently in class D or E, the adoption of intelligent climate control products can be a valuable support for class improvement. Where the most innovative and smart solutions such as intelligent remote control systems for boilers become essential is in the higher energy classes. In order to be awarded an APE in class A1 or A2, for example, it is essential that all plant components are themselves certified. In short, big savings can be made by using the right accessories and components.
Saving and being prepared for the future
Improving the energy class of the house, in short, is more than just a regulatory obligation. Above all, it is a good opportunity to make one’s own home more efficient, economical and environmentally friendly, thanks also to the use of smart technologies that allow significant savings on energy consumption.
Read also “7 tips for a more efficient home”
