Influence of Heat Source Choice on Building Energy Certification Process and CO₂ Emissions

Abstract

In pursuit of energy savings, reducing production costs and securing heat to buildings, we are trying to find new suitable solutions. The intention is also supported by the requirements for energy efficiency of buildings. The requirements are defined by the value of the global indicator – Primary energy. In the article we focus on the category of residential buildings. From January 1st 2016, buildings will be refurbished to meet category A1. In cases justified by high investment intensity without return, it is possible to accept the reconstructed building with classification in category B. Measures are usually implemented on building structures that generally have the greatest impact on reducing heat demand. However, heat is “produced” in various sources to which energy is supplied to produce it. The total energy delivered for global assessment is driven by the efficiency of production, and the quantity of “primary energy factor,” which is different for different types of energy. It is the primary energy factor that fundamentally influences the category to which the building under assessment gets. In the article, we will make a comparison on a real certified object, with the impact of different primary energy sources on the overall classification of the object.