#None #Energy Transitions Commission #Zero-Carbon Buildings #Global Emissions

New Report Overview: Achieving Zero-Carbon Buildings

The Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) has released a significant report titled "Achieving Zero-Carbon Buildings: Electric, Efficient, and Flexible." This comprehensive document sheds light on the critical emission levels from the global buildings sector, which currently contributes one-third of all greenhouse gas emissions, amounting to 12.3 gigatons of CO2 in 2022. These emissions primarily stem from the reliance on fossil fuels for heating, cooling, cooking, and other applications within both residential and commercial structures.

The report emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for decarbonisation. However, it identifies three essential priorities that must guide the transition to a zero-carbon buildings sector:

1. Electrification of Heating and Cooking: Transitioning from fossil fuels to electric technologies such as heat pumps and electric cooktops is critical. Currently, gas and oil heating account for about 3 gigatons of CO2 annually. The report advocates for ambitious policies that support the decarbonisation of electricity production. Its projections indicate that by 2050, 80% of energy consumed in buildings could come from electricity, leading to near-zero emissions if the electricity itself is generated from renewable sources.

2. Enhanced Energy Efficiency: The rising use of air conditioning and electrification will significantly increase electricity demand, potentially rising from 12,800 terawatt-hours (TWh) to 35,000 TWh by 2050. However, by implementing improved efficiency measures—like optimizing heat pumps and utilizing smart building management systems—this demand could be curtailed to around 18,500 TWh. Strategies such as passive heating and cooling designs, improved energy efficiency in new and existing buildings, and the adoption of building-level energy storage are vital for meeting this goal.

3. Construction of Low-Carbon Buildings: New buildings presently contribute 2.5 gigatons of CO2 worldwide annually. The global floor area is expected to expand by 55% by 2050, predominantly in developing regions. Keeping the carbon intensity of construction unchanged could result in cumulative emissions of 75 gigatons by 2050. The report calls for decarbonising steel, cement, and other essential materials while advocating for sustainable construction practices that include reduced material use and greater longevity of existing buildings.

Adair Turner, chair of the Energy Transitions Commission, underscores the importance of addressing the carbon footprint of the buildings sector as it directly impacts climate objectives and quality of life. He highlights that electric heating solutions not only improve air quality but are also less costly over the long term compared to traditional fossil fuel alternatives.

Nevertheless, implementing these recommendations comes with challenges. The complexities involved with existing structures mean property owners may face high initial costs and viable technology options vary based on building types and national contexts. Government support and clear policy objectives are crucial in this regard, especially for low-income households.

For new constructions, specific optimal solutions differ depending on local climates and building types, often requiring careful balance between minimizing construction emissions and operational energy use. Collaboration across sectors, including small and medium-sized enterprises, is necessary to adapt building codes to fit unique regional circumstances.

The report also discusses seven critical challenges that overlap in the path to decarbonising the buildings sector. Each challenge is tied to targeted audiences, such as policymakers, residential owners, and the energy sector, aiming to create informed and concerted action.

The findings of this ETC report are not only a call to action but a blueprint for the future, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing living conditions through sustainable practices. The report serves as a beacon for industry stakeholders committed to climate action and an equitable transition.

To download the full report, visit the Energy Transitions Commission’s website. For more details about the Commission’s work and initiatives aimed at achieving zero-carbon targets, explore further resources provided on their platform.