For over a year, we have been interested in examples of sustainable architecture. Because in the future the latest technology can be used, the controlled management, the progress in CAD and the multimedia, and the construction of buildings is becoming increasingly attuned to the environment. The climatic change has altered the way of building and renovation considerably. That is why we attended a large convention on the Isle of Rhodes, recently organised by the Van Marke firm to help its clients in their choice of sustainable techniques and products. Over 2200 fitters, architects, and engineers took part in this event, which was titled « Change of Climate – Climate of Change ». How can we make clients invest in sustainable techniques? What are the rules, subsidies, and premiums? What is HQE? All these questions and more regarding heating, ventilation, and automation of the home, were focal points in workshops lead by various technicians and professors.

It is evident that we now have the means to lower our energy bills considerably and to replace the boilers that waste so much energy with condensation equipment with sophisticated photovoltaic or geothermic installations. Thanks to various subsidies, the photovoltaic panels are very popular with a number of people, which is also true for thermal solar power. Thermal solar panels are very suitable for domestic use; they can largely provide in our need for hot water and central heating. Since heat pumps use heat in the air or under the ground, it is possible – if they use green energy – to heat, cool, and even produce water with a neutral CO2-content.

At the top of the pyramid of models is the passive dwelling, which uses up to 85% less energy than average. Thanks to proper insulation, good compactness, and effective ventilation systems, we can limit the necessary amount of heat to 10 W/m², or 10 times less than in a classic dwelling. The European guidelines regarding the environmental policy have dramatically influenced the national and regional legislature of each member state, which has mainly resulted in the performance certificates or energy identity cards for existing companies. This official document will undoubtedly become a deciding factor in building negotiations and will entail several big changes.