Efficient buildings

Residential developers, legislators and  customers have long devoted considerable focus to the energy consumption of buildings during operation. This is linked with the EU Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings which establishes standards and requirements to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in buildings for each EU country. The EU taxonomy for sustainable financing will focus further on the operational phase. At the same time, the trend is moving toward an increased share of renewable energy and decreased dependence on fossil fuels in energy systems.

Governance
We have long endeavoured to develop the most resource-­efficient housing units possible, with good energy efficiency and low water consumption. Adapting our building systems to national environmental and certification standards also creates potential for more efficient utilisation of water resources. Countries do not have comparable definitions or requirement levels for energy use during the operational phase of a building, which complicates comparisons of energy intensity among buildings in different countries. The extent to which Bonava’s housing units will be more energy-efficient than indicated in national construction regulations for new production is assessed and determined for the respective business units as part of the action plans for contributing to the SDGs, based on the conditions of the respective geographical markets. This includes assessments of national definitions and prevailing regulations for energy performance as well as access to renewable and fossil-free energy. 

Evaluation
We monitor energy intensity per building both in the design phase and after completion in relation to the requirements in the respective building permits in order to ensure that the energy performance target is achieved. 

GRI standard for sustainability reporting
Bonava reports annually according to GRI indicator G4 CRE1 Buildings energy intensity.