Germany calls for renewable energy for all buildings

Buildings are responsible for approximately one third of the energy used worldwide. But there are many ways to use less of it, have an efficient construction is certainly a good way.

The German government has announced a new code for new buildings that talks about renewable energy sources within them. As of January 2009, all new houses to be built must generate at least 14% of its heating energy from renewable energy.

Heating is a very good area for renewable energy, especially in new construction because it can support the solar thermal heating. With one solar water heater, you can meet the 14% target, it is said that one of these heaters can reduce energy consumption by 50%. Another advantage is that investment in renewable energy systems can be recovered between 5 and 8 years, a relatively short time.

Heating for buildings is approximately 40% of energy use in Germany, with only 6% from renewables. The overall goal is 14% for 2020. Additionally for2010, the older buildings will require renovations to reach at least 10% of energy from renewable sources.

The German government believes that the houses built in the’60s consume up to 4 times more than energy efficient new buildings.

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