Zero-energy Buildings Market Trends

Introduction

As we enter the year 2024, the zero energy building market is undergoing a process of change, a process that is reshaping the landscape of sustainable building. Technological advances in energy-saving and the integration of renewable energy sources are driving innovation, while regulatory requirements to reduce the carbon footprint are driving the market towards zero energy buildings. In addition, a shift in consumer attitudes towards energy self-sufficiency and sustainable building is driving investors and builders to zero energy solutions. These trends are important for all market participants, not only because they are a reflection of the changing market, but also because they offer strategic opportunities for a competitive advantage in an increasingly eco-conscious world.

Top Trends

1. Increased Adoption of Renewable Energy Sources
   Governments are requiring that buildings must be designed to take advantage of solar and wind energy. Germany, for example, aims to be obtaining all its electricity from such sources by the year 2035. In 2023 the number of solar-power stations will have risen by 20 per cent. And this not only reduces the carbon footprint, but also reduces the operating costs of buildings. Energy storage will be developed further, to ensure reliability.
2. Smart Building Technologies
   The Internet of Things and the use of artificial intelligence in building automation systems have radically changed energy efficiency. It is now possible to save up to 30 percent of energy consumption by using intelligent sensors and automation. Honeywell’s smart building solutions, for example, have shown significant savings in energy consumption. As the technology develops, it will be possible to use even more precise predictions to optimize energy use in real time.
3. Enhanced Building Materials
   Towards zero-energy buildings, new building materials, such as phase-change materials and high-performance insulating materials, are essential. Companies such as Kingspan are developing products that can improve the building’s thermal performance and thus reduce energy consumption by 15–20 per cent. These materials are increasingly being included in building regulations, which could lead to their increased use and to further innovation in the field of sustainable building.
4. Government Incentives and Regulations
   Incentives for zero-energy buildings, such as tax breaks and subsidies, have been introduced by several governments. For example, the United States has allocated a significant amount of money to energy-efficient building research. These measures have pushed the market for zero-energy buildings, and these standards are now being adopted. Perhaps in the future, more stringent regulations will drive the industry to even higher performance standards.
5. Decentralized Energy Systems
   Decentralised energy systems are becoming more popular, such as micro-grids and community solar. This is a way of generating and supplying energy locally, so reducing reliance on centralised power sources. Community solar is being developed by companies like Sunpower. We may see the spread of these systems as technology develops.
6. Focus on Indoor Environmental Quality
   Indoor air quality in zero-energy buildings is becoming increasingly important. This is driven by health concerns and studies of productivity. The latter show that an improvement in indoor air quality can increase productivity by up to 11%. In order to meet this demand, companies are integrating high-tech ventilation and purification systems. In the future, building certification may well require a more comprehensive assessment of indoor air quality.
7. Integration of Energy Storage Solutions
   In a regulated system of power supply, storage devices are essential for the zero-energy building, enabling a better management of the renewable energy. A considerable growth is expected in the market for storage devices, with Schneider Electric at the forefront. These systems are back-up devices and also increase the energy efficiency of buildings, making them more resistant. Future developments could be based on reducing costs and increasing the storage capacity.
8. Sustainable Urban Planning
   In sustainable city planning, the zero-energy building concept is increasingly being applied. The city of San Francisco has imposed strict energy efficiency standards on all new construction. The aim is to develop energy-efficient neighborhoods and thereby enhance the resilience of the community. Industry and city planners work together to create solutions that are both sustainable and economical. Future developments will probably see more and more cities adopting similar frameworks in order to achieve their sustainability goals.
9. Lifecycle Assessment and Circular Economy
   A life-cycle assessment (LCA) is becoming the standard method of evaluating the life-cycle of building materials and building systems. Companies are adopting the principles of a circular economy to reduce waste and increase resource efficiency. For example, Saint-Gobain is using LCA to develop its products. As awareness of the circular economy increases, regulations may be introduced to encourage it.
10. Collaboration Across Industries
    There is a need for close cooperation between the technology companies, the construction companies, and the authorities to promote the zero-energy building. Such cooperative ventures as the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction are establishing such a cooperative spirit and are exchanging best practices. This kind of cooperative venture can lead to the development of new solutions and to the faster adoption of zero-energy standards. There will be more public-private cooperative ventures in the future.

Conclusion: Navigating the Zero Energy Buildings Landscape

The zero-energy building market will be characterized by high competitiveness and significant fragmentation, with a mixture of established and new players. In the different geographical areas, there will be a growing focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, especially in urban areas, where the regulatory framework is becoming increasingly stringent. The vendors will have to use their advanced capabilities such as AI, automation and flexibility to optimize the building performance and the operating efficiency. The established players are focusing on integrating sustainable practices into their existing business models, while the new entrants are deploying disruptive new technology to disrupt the established business models. The ability to adapt and implement these advanced capabilities will be a key success factor for establishing market leadership and gaining a competitive advantage.