More than 50% of the energy used in buildings could be reduced, leading to an annual saving of approximately 460 million tonnes of CO₂ – almost the total EU commitment made in Kyoto.

Every renovation is an opportunity that must not be missed. Research by Ecofys demonstrates that when improved levels of insulation are coupled with the normal renovation cycle, the measures always provide a good return on investment – this is a clear call for all buildings to be covered by legislation.

Energy efficiency is good, insulation is best. The findings are clear; energy efficiency is the main and most cost-effective way to reduce both energy use and CO₂ emissions. In addition, the report demonstrates that among the different measures to reduce energy use in buildings, insulation has the potential to provide the highest return on investment.

Yet buildings have an enormous energy-saving potential. For example, a properly insulated home uses only 27% of the energy that is needed to heat a standard house built before 1974.

Insulation is by far the most reliable and important measure to reduce energy use in buildings, as it accounts for 78% of the total energy reduction potential from buildings.

Energy saving and energy conservation planning are key to capturing this potential.

Source: EURIMA