ABSTRACT
Buildings are one of the biggest energy-consuming sectors. In Europe, approximately 30 per cent of energy is consumed in buildings, a large amount being used for heating. In analysing the potential reduction of energy consumption in buildings, the two roles of buildings should be considered: providing a healthy indoor climate and comfort for its occupants. The building sector offers large opportunities for this; it is thought that energy consumption could be reduced by 20 per cent in this sector. The development of renewable sources is hindered by financial and structural aspects. Although the price of energy obtained from renewable sources decreased considerably and is expected to decrease further, it will be 50 per cent more expensive than the electricity generated by gas burners. In analysing the potential reduction of energy consumption in buildings, the two roles of buildings should be considered: providing a healthy indoor climate and comfort for its occupants.
