Giulia Paoletti - How to raise the number of nZEBs in Europe? Experts provide their insights into probing questions

DIRECTION's second replication workshop took place in September, organised by Eurac in Bolzano, Italy. This is one of three workshops organised as part of DIRECTION's outreach aimed at maximising replicability potential as the project enters its final months.

Giulia Paoletti

An architect and researcher specialising in building materials and renewable energy.

Do you think a real market for nZEBs can exist in Europe in the short term?

I suppose that if these buildings reach the estimated potential of energy savings in parallel with a reduction in operating costs, then the real estate market will be eager to sell them.

Which governmental initiatives (regulation, public funding, etc.) could ensure the growth of the nZEB market, making such buildings more appealing to public and private developers and end users? Or does the private sector need to take the lead? Why?

The awareness levels of experts (designers, builders etc.), owners and investors should play a key role here. Therefore initiatives to raise awareness about nZEB targets are highly recommended.

Regulations and different financing forms are excellent tools to help grow the nZEB market.

The public sector should set a good example and commit to achieving this type of building, as set out by the European Directive. Unfortunately, property management and public finances put constraints on the public housing stock. The private sector in contrast can operate more freely; it is more knowledgeable in the field and is already getting underway with constructing new nZEBs.

Do you believe your company would benefit from a higher market share of nZEBs compared to traditional buildings?

Possibly. In fact we have an entire working group specialising in this issue.

How could the design of nZEBs be integrated in the public procurement procedures?

An example can be seen here (www.aidaprojet.eu).

Integrated design process of nZEBs with SMEs and craftsmen: is it possible? How?

In the construction industry companies and craftsmen ensure the final quality of the work, ensuring a workmanlike product. Obviously the designers must be able, during the planning phase, to work out every single detail, talking and addressing the problems with the artisans.

More information:
alessandra.barbieri1@youris.com
DIRECTION is a four-year EU-funded project that aims at demonstrating how the use of very innovative and cost-effective energy efficiency technologies can lead to the achievement of very low energy new buildings