The energy transition has arrived in the real estate sector definitively. The European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) — and its transposition into Portuguese law — has created a regulatory framework that, in the coming years, will transform how owners, managers and investors look at their assets. Ignoring energy efficiency is, increasingly, synonymous with devaluation.
What is an Energy Audit and What is it For?
An energy audit is an in-depth technical diagnosis that evaluates a building's energy consumption, identifies the main inefficiencies and proposes improvement measures with cost-benefit analysis. It is different from the simple Energy Certificate (CE), which classifies the building on an A+ to F scale, but does not detail the savings opportunities or necessary investments.
Which Buildings are Required to Have an Energy Audit?
Large Energy-Consuming Service Buildings (SGCIE)
Under the Energy Intensive Consumption Management System (SGCIE), service buildings with primary energy consumption above 500 toe/year are required to carry out periodic energy audits (every 6 years) and implement energy consumption rationalisation plans. Non-compliance implies fines and additional obligations.
What an Energy Audit Evaluates
HVAC and Ventilation Systems
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning are responsible for 40% to 60% of a service building's energy consumption. The audit evaluates equipment efficiency (COP, EER, SEER), filter and heat exchanger condition, distribution network losses and the potential for replacement by more efficient equipment or renewable energy systems.
Thermal Insulation and Thermal Bridges
The building envelope — walls, roofs, windows and thermal bridges — determines the amount of energy needed to maintain interior comfort conditions. Infrared thermography is the most effective tool for identifying thermal bridges and insulation deficiencies in a non-invasive manner.
Lighting Systems and Efficiency
Replacing conventional luminaires with LED with smart management (presence sensors, dimming, centralised management) has paybacks of 2 to 4 years and lighting consumption reductions of 60% to 80%.
Financial Support and Incentives for Energy Efficiency
- PRR — Recovery and Resilience Plan: grants for energy rehabilitation of public and private buildings
- Environmental Fund: 'More Sustainable Buildings' programme with subsidies up to 85%
- Deduction in IRC/IRS of energy efficiency expenses
FYB as Your Partner in Energy Efficiency
FYB integrates energy audits into its building management plans and rehabilitation projects. We work with SCE-qualified experts for energy certificates and audit reports, identify and support applications for financial support and implement improvement measures within our construction works. The result: your building more efficient, more valuable and with lower operating costs. Contact us.