Key rends in designing energy-efficient homes: How to save on bills and care for the environment

Circle Wood House, Poland, Systems used: MB-77HS, MB-SR50N

The contemporary home is expected to be environmentally friendly, budget-conscious, and equipped with all modern comforts. Energy efficiency is now the paramount feature demanded by both investors and final users in modern constructions. But what trends are leading the way?

Energy efficiency standards in modern construction

Rising social awareness of climate change, increasing eco-friendly regulations for new structures, and soaring energy costs are all contributing to the heightened focus on energy-efficient building practices. While energy-efficient homes were once a choice for select investors, they are now becoming a necessity. The question isn’t whether to adopt energy-efficient methods, but rather how to execute them and which technologies to implement–as more options become available in the market.

Sara Kulturhus, Skellefteå, Sweden. Used systems: MB-86 SI, MB-SR50N, MB-SR50N OW

Innovative technologies for energy-efficient homes

Today's market offers numerous solutions that help reduce a building's energy consumption. These center around:

• Energy Generation Systems: Such as photovoltaic panels and heat pumps.
• Energy Loss Prevention Systems: Including ventilation with heat recovery and thermally enhanced aluminum window and door systems (e.g., MB-104 Passive or MB-86 ST by Aluprof with superior water and wind tightness).
• Energy Demand Reduction Systems: Smart energy management systems for lighting and overall energy use, as well as shading systems like SkyFlow Aluprof and solar protection systems like Skyroll Aluprof.

The ongoing efforts by scientists and technologists in developing more energy-efficient building solutions underscore the importance for both the planet and individual investors seeking to minimize operational costs in their homes – remarks Emmanuel Gregoire, Managing Director at Aluprof Belgium NV. – At Aluprof, we're consistently raising the bar by enhancing the insulation parameters of our aluminum facade systems, windows, and doors, and investing in new product development. Innovations like photovoltaic glass with quantum dots and Glassprof insulated glass with radiation-resistant gel not only boost a building's energy efficiency but also elevate its safety – explains the expert.

The Lighthouse Tower Glenmorangie Distillery, Tain, United Kingdom. Used systems: MB-SR50N, MB-SR50N EI

Costs of building and operating energy-efficient versus traditional homes

The initial investment in energy-efficient technologies and materials (such as high-grade insulation, solar panels, aluminum windows, and sun blinds) often means that constructing an energy-efficient building can be more costly than comparable traditional methods. Extra costs are estimated at €150-250/m². However, these initial expenses are rapidly offset by reduced operational costs.

Interestingly, examining real estate markets across various EU countries reveals an increased household awareness of the importance of building energy efficiency. Energy-efficient homes on the secondary market are commanding higher prices than their less efficient counterparts. This disparity, combined with growing social consciousness and climbing energy costs, suggests that the investment in energy-efficient properties is justified, especially when considering the EU's new directive that mandates all new buildings to be zero-emission by 2030 and aims for all buildings to achieve zero-emission standards by 2050.

The Link, Antwerp, Belgium. Used systems: MB-70HI, MB-77HS, MB-SR50N EFEKT, MB-SR50N HI+. Standard: BREEAM Excellent

Examples and energy efficiency of energy-efficient homes

There are increasing instances of energy-efficient homes that impress both architecturally and through their energy-saving capabilities. One notable example is the Wind House, which incorporates aluminum windows, doors, and facades using Aluprof systems. This expansive 450 m² home integrates seamlessly with the surrounding trees, which led to a unique open and irregular structure while achieving excellent energy efficiency thanks to its high-performance systems.

Wind House, Izabelin, Poland. Used systems: MB-77HS, MB-SR50N

Another outstanding example is the House with a Passageway, which aligns with the site's natural contours to boost energy efficiency. Large windows on the southern and western sides allow optimal energy gains in the winter, which are regulated by external blinds and Aluprof systems with advanced glazing.

House with a Clearance, Mikołów, Poland. Used systems: MB-77HS, MB-TT50, MB-86 Aero

Future prospects for energy-efficient home design – Let's build a better future

The emphasis on energy efficiency is set to grow as the cost of energy continues to rise due to the prolonged exploitation of natural resources. The solution lies in reducing energy consumption and sourcing energy from renewables, which are less costly in the long run. Technologists and inventors face the challenge of creating energy-efficient solutions, while builders need to integrate them, and designers must incorporate them into holistic projects to ensure both low energy usage and everyday convenience and comfort.

We can anticipate advancements both in new energy acquisition solutions, such as MB-SR50N EI skylights, as well as in technologies that reduce energy consumption like energy-efficient facades or glass-aluminum partitions.