Energy efficiency
The world is under the influence of the “green” wave for many years now. More and more people are investing in energy efficient systems, used for saving energy while at the same time protecting the environment. Recently, in Macedonia, a trend of raising the significance of energy efficient systems and their role in protecting the environment was spotted. A simple definition of energy efficiency would be the one that refers to a reduced usage of energy while at the same time providing the same service, without lowering the level of comfort present.
Per EU Directive “Energy Performance of Building Directive” (EPBD), the following thermal and electrical forms of energy are considered when determining the energy efficiency of a building:
- Heating
- DHW
- Cooling
- Lighting
- Auxiliary energy
According to a research that was conducted by Siemens, buildings account for 41 % of primary energy consumption, of which 85 % is used for room heating and room cooling as well as 15 % for electrical energy (in particular, lighting). Overall, buildings account for 35 percent of primary energy use to achieve comfortable temperatures and 6 percent for electrical energy. That amounts to a significant portion. With the help of using IT technologies for automation of the building thermal processes, a great amount of energy use reduction, as well as, operating costs reduction, can be achieved. Primary energy use for heat in buildings amounts to some 920 TWh (Terawatt hours) in Germany, of which more than half (ca 60 %) comes from non-residential buildings where it makes sense to use building automation and control. A cautious estimate in business management (based on EN 15232) indicates that 20 % can be saved by building automation and controls, corresponding roughly to 110 TWh. Similar results are expected in other countries too. Mepring Servisi is a company that by installing building automation systems in various communities and schools in Macedonia, has achieved significant savings in energy used for heating. The company, with its desire for improvement and innovation, is trying to raise the consciousness of its stakeholders and partners, as well as its customers, to always think and act energy efficiently.