Zero Energy Buildings

clipped from www.leonardo-energy.org A Parliament's proposal calls for all new buildings to be 'zero energy' by 2019, i.e. to produce as much energy as they consume. The underlying idea is to provide extreme insulation for buildings, and to provide the remaining energy demand through on-site renewables. On-site small-scale energy production is often not very cost-effective at present. If we compare the costs of small PV systems to PV power stations, or of small wind turbines to wind farms, there are definite economies of scale. There is value to consumers to allow them to offset their energy use offsite through real projects. For example, community wind farms or community solar power plants would be suitable for this. Municipalities can play a role to provide the land. Moreover, in urban settings, where the majority of European citizens live, the requirements may often not be practical. Heat pumps are difficult to install. Roof space is limited.