Energy challenge

Buildings consume approximately 40% of all the energy we use. Considering the total energy consumption throughout the whole life cycle of a building, the energy performance and energy supply is an important issue in the concern about climate changes, security of supply and reduced global energy consumption. 

Energy design (design strategy)

The design, orientation and materials of an Active House are optimised to use as little energy as possible and to utilise renewable energy sources, thus making it CO₂ neutral. All energy is produced from renewable energy sources, either integrated into the building or taken from the nearby collective energy system and electricity grid.

Low energy consumption is reached through a holistic approach where orientation and design of the building ensures maximum use of the power of the sun. The use of high-performance products, intelligent control systems, dynamic façade and window solutions with optimised shading and screening will create a building that can be controlled according to the rhythm of the year and day.

The initial cost of an Active House can be higher than the cost of a conventional building because low energy consumption is attained by more energy efficient solutions and constructions (walls, roof, floors, windows, heating and ventilation system), and utilisation of green technologies (solar panels, solar cells, heat pumps, etc.). However, these added costs are offset by savings in primary energy, and by production of renewable energy. It is therefore important to calculate the total costs and savings during the design phase (construction costs) and the operation phase (running costs).

Evaluation and key factors

Energy evaluation of an Active House comprises an overall approach, including all energy consumed and all CO₂ emissions from materials, construction and operation (heating, ventilation, domestic hot water, lighting, technical installations and appliances), measured for the energy consumption and CO₂ emissions per m² and per occupant.

Key factors:

• Optimise the design with focus on energy efficiency
• Utilise natural design solutions for heating and cooling
• Use renewable energies either integrated into the building or taken from the nearby collective energy system and electricity grid
• Include material energy and the CO₂ footprint in the overall energy calculation
• Evaluate per m² and per occupant