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Energy efficiency in buildings 2f5d5n

Eight steps towards sustainable construction 26jh

R&D Architecture Energy efficiency

Sustainable architecture promotes efficient energy use in buildings in order to prevent unnecessary energy costs, to take advantage of local resources for system operations, and to ensure that there are no negative environmental impacts. Iberdrola is part of the Madrid World Capital of Construction, Engineering and Architecture Association (MWCC), as the leading exponent of the energy transition, contributing its experience and technical capacity to consolidate the association's project at national and international level. 

Here are some examples:

Innovative construction methods, new materials, and technological advances are boosting the energy efficiency of new buildings worldwide. Housing that saves 75% on heating costs, hospitals that consume 70% less energy, shopping centres that barely waste any water... How is this possible?

The key lies in the design. First, the design is aligned with nature by choosing the appropriate location and orientation of the structure to take advantage of sunshine for lighting and the breeze for cooling. Construction materials are increasingly recycled and are purchased from local suppliers to reduce the carbon footprint from shipping. Likewise, proper insulation is used to reduce the need for heating and air conditioning as much as possible.

New technologies are essential throughout this entire process: evaporative cooling towers, water recycling systems, solar s, smart temperature and humidity management, etc. Additionally, sustainable buildings encourage a lifestyle that protects the environment: bike parking, vertical gardens, and rainwater catchment and treatment. All of these elements demonstrate how architecture can help in the fight against climate change.

Certified sustainability 4j4u1i

Many organisations have developed seals of excellence over the last 25 years to push the trend towards sustainable construction, promoting innovation, and energy efficiency: LEED External link, opens in new window., BREEAM External link, opens in new window., ive House External link, opens in new window. or Living Building Challenge are some of the most prevalent ones. Companies, public bodies, and architecture firms around the world compete for certification.

How is building sustainability measured? 13r2d

The LEED certification, awarded by the Green Building Council in the United States, scores 8 prerequisites needed for sustainable construction:

1

Location and transportation 2a2m3c

(16 points)
  • Avoid building in natural environments
  • Reduce the duration of car trips
  • Encourage public transit and physical activity
2

Sustainable sites 4s5d6l

(10 points)
  • Protect or restore the local habitat
  • Revitalize abandoned areas
3

Responsible waste management 4w5w62

(10 points)
  • Efficient re-use
  • Irrigation system control
  • Moderate consumption
4

Energy and air quality 6q1b3e

(35 points)
  • Demonstrate a percentage of energy savings
  • Use clean, renewable energy
5

Materials and inputs 2h725d

(14 points)
  • Recycled, renewable, or Green Seal-certified materials
6

Interior air quality 6hg5a

(15 points)
  • Ventilation
  • Temperature and acoustic comfort
  • Proper lighting

100 points

Illustration
7

Design innovation 5i5hq

(6 points)
  • Proposals for new conservation strategies
8

Regional priority 151uf

(4 points)
  • Attend to local environmental issues

10 points

LEED Certifications 1c3p1s
  • Icon

    Certified 40-49 points

  • Icon

    Silver 50-59 points

  • Icon

    Gold 70-79 points

  • Icon

    Platinum More than 80 points

Iberdrola Tower 4j7145

Symbol of our commitment to innovation, sustainability and art

Sostenibilidad

Sustainable management 4t313a

We are an international benchmark for sustainability