What is a Plus Energy Building
Discover what a Plus Energy Building (PEB) is and how it produces more energy than it consumes
PEB stands for Plus Energy Building.
It is a new building concept aimed at improving the living conditions of its inhabitants while contributing to a greener future for the planet by reducing emissions.
PEBs are energy-efficient buildings designed to use minimal energy for both their ordinary operations - such as heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, electrical systems (e.g., elevators), and water heating - and for energy consumption related to user behaviour, such as using electrical appliances, and controlling lighting, heating, and cooling devices (like a fan).
This energy is produced by the building itself from locally available renewable sources like solar and wind.
What sets PEBs apart from other energy-efficient buildings is that they not only meet their energy demands, but also produce an energy surplus throughout the year. This energy surplus must be produced while minimising the production of greenhouse gases, which are major contributors to climate change.
But how does a Plus Energy Building work?
The energy efficiency of a PEB comes from several factors working together to enhance the building's performance.
The building envelope is well-insulated and airtight, minimising heat loss or gain, which helps maintain indoor temperatures at comfortable levels and reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling.
The building's energy system is fully electric, consisting of heat pumps powered by renewable sources, typically photovoltaics, along with batteries that store surplus energy. These heat pumps replace traditional heating and cooling systems, such as boilers and air conditioners. Heat pumps are significantly more efficient than conventional systems, as they move heat rather than generate it.
PEBs are smart buildings. Buildings are considered “smart” when they can manage resource autonomously, maximising efficiency in consumption while maintaining optimal internal conditions. In a PEB, in fact, the house's various systems (heating, cooling, lighting, energy storage, etc.) regulate themselves independently and intelligently to optimise consumption while improving comfort.
Users can help by managing their energy use. By controlling their energy demand, they can improve the balance between the renewable energy produced and the energy needs of households.
Why should you choose to live in a Plus Energy Building?
There are several advantages. In a nutshell, PEBs are:
