New regulations on the energy performance of buildings and the global challenge

In Europe, households account for two thirds of energy used in buildings. Their consumption is growing every year as rising living standards are reflected in greater use of heating and active cooling systems, particularly in hot countries.
The new EU Directive 2002/91/EC, mandatory for all member states as of January 2006, has the goal of minimising energy consumption in European building standards.
Measures include a common methodology for calculating the energy performance of a building, minimum standards for new buildings and major refurbishments, regular inspection of boilers and air conditioning systems and a system of building certification which makes energy consumption levels visible to owners and tenants.

The United States and Canada are committed through their Councils for Energy Efficiency to reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
A huge variety of programs promoting sustainable development are also being implemented in the Asia - Pacific region.

Download the EU Directive 2002/91/ EC
Download the EU Information leaflet on Energy Efficiency in Buildings

www.europa.eu.int
www.energy.gov
www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca