Renewable and Sustainable Energy Technology - International ...

The International Experience58Energy EfficiencyThe most effective way to reduce dependency on fossil fuels is to increase energy efficiency.Studies and actions have shown that a 20% reduction of energy consumption is possible.This potential is huge not only for large business, and the public sector, but also for thedomestic market.One area where this knowledge has been applied in Växjö is in the public and privatehousing sector. Current housing projects meet strict, high levels of energy efficient buildingcodes as well as using local materials.A visit was undertaken to a building site of a six level apartment block under construction.The main building materials are locally sourced such as the timber used in the building. Theother main feature being that it was highly insulated and designed to not only take in viewsof the beautiful lake, but to be a passive solar building.© SustainablePlanet.com.au © SustainablePlanet.com.auUntil the building is complete, it is literally under wraps. Due to the timber walls etc, the entirebuilding needs to be protected from the elements. Eventually a weatherproof coating will beapplied to the external walls.Key to the construction is the insulation of the entire building; this includes the installation ofdouble or triple glazed windows and doors, inbuilt floor hydronic heating and correct orientationof the building to enable passive solar principles to operate the apartments. The other importantfeature is effective ventilating systems, to allow fresh air to enter the apartments.