The future of real estate in Spain is in eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes. The modern residential construction sector widely uses natural materials that are safe for both health and the environment. They also increase the energy efficiency of facilities through well thought-out utilities.
In this article, you are going to learn more about the features, trends and new standards of construction in Spain.
Content:
Features of modern construction in Spain
The Spanish Government continues to encourage the construction of environmentally friendly buildings. The Spanish Technical Building Code (CTE) is updated every few years in accordance with priority objectives; it includes regulations and requirements relating to resource consumption. The latest CTE regulations, adopted in 2021, reflect the need to reduce the energy consumption of buildings to “adequate and sustainable limits" as much as possible.
Another important document governing the direction of building activities and other industries in the country is the National Comprehensive Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC) 2021–2030. It sets goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, using renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency. It also sets a development trajectory that will maximize opportunities and benefits for the economy, employment, health, and the environment.
Green Building
In order to simultaneously ensure buildings are energy efficient and maximize comfort for residents, eco-home projects typically include the following elements:
- a preliminary geobioylogical study;
- the use of eco-friendly materials;
- maximum insulation and tightness;
- orientation to natural light;
- air conditioning;
- use of renewable energy sources;
- improvement of air and water quality.
Geobiological survey
A geobiological survey is carried out to detect radiation from the ground and electromagnetic fields in the area of construction. It is used to identify possible geophysical changes that may interfere with the construction and further operation of the facility. This allows you to think ahead about options for solving possible problems and immediately design the building in such a way as to decrease possible risks.
Environmentally friendly materials
Concrete produces large amounts of CO₂, making it one of the least environmentally friendly building materials. Thus, in eco-houses, materials with minimal carbon content are preferred. An example is PEFC- or FSC-certified wood.
Green buildings also try to avoid plastic, and as a result, natural materials, such as wood and stone, are used in the design.
Insulation and airtightness
Maximum energy efficiency is only possible in houses with a constant internal temperature. Consequently, ensuring that windows, doors, and the roof are 100% insulated is a top priority.
Focus on natural light
Many modern houses in Spain south in order to take maximum advantage of the sunlight.
Air Conditioning
Brise Soleil & Air Conditioning – angled window grilles and louvres – are architectural elements that prevent overheating, while efficiently air-conditioning, and providing extra airflow during the hottest months of the year.
Renewable energy sources
These include the use of wind and solar energy. The latter is one of the most affordable elements to include in green building. Renewable energy is most effective on the Costa del Sol, since the area is sunny for more than 320 days a year.
Clean air and water
In recent years, the idea of using building technology to improve health is gaining popularity in Spain. Engineering is being designed to improve air and water quality, as well as provide customizable lighting and acoustic comfort.
COVID-19 proved the need for clean, well-circulated indoor air. However, even before the pandemic, wildfires were a big problem, with smoke and ash entering homes. In addition, in some areas industrial activity has made the problem of removing harmful impurities from the air especially acute.
High-efficiency ventilation and water treatment systems provide optimal air and water quality inside housings.
Passive House Concept
A "passive house" (also called a Passivhaus) is a competently designed and expertly executed facility that uses 90% less energy. Buildings built in accordance with Passive House standards usually do not require a heater or, conversely, air cooling.
"Passive houses" are built with a complete installation, creating an airtight layer, also known as the “building envelope". Workers insulate windows and walls with several special layers to prevent unwanted heat loss or gain. Thanks to a competent air ventilation system, such facilities retain the indoor temperature so well that homes usually don’t need to cool the air at all, even in hot months of the year.
Conclusion
Creating facilities that meet modern green building standards will cost more than building conventional homes. These costs will vary depending on the area and the materials used, some of which may be imported from abroad. Despite this, investing in green building projects is justified, as more and more people today are thinking about staying healthy for as long as possible by choosing eco-friendly products, technologies and housing. If this trend continues, the demand for eco-homes will gradually grow. In addition, such real estate will help to optimize the use of resources through the usage of renewable energy sources.
The spread of "green building" technology and principles will speed up the process of creating new properties and reduce the cost of maintaining such homes.
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