Energy-saving measures
Household energy use accounts for 36% of all energy used in Malta. The typical household wastes a considerable amount of this energy each year, partially due to the poor building practices and design. In fact, Malta responded to the EU buildings directive by Legal Notice 238 of 2006 and Legal Notice 261 of 2008 (Minimum Requirements on the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations). These laws oblige developers to build in a more sustainable manner, thus minimising the environmental problems that come along with poor building design.
Energy-sensitive design in construction of homes needs careful consideration at an early stage. This is particulary important in the local scenario. According to the Building Industry Consultative Council (BICC), general energy losses through a standard dwelling occur as follows:
Roofs = 35% energy losses
Walls = 25% energy losses
Floors = 15% energy losses
Windows = 15% energy losses
Draughts = 10% energy losses
(Source: Vince Buhagiar, 2001. Energy Efficiency in Building Design. Building Industry Consultative Council)
For a summary list of EU policies and regulations related to energy click here.
Unlike some other countries, in Malta old technologies used for building were more sustainable than modern concepts. Here are a few examples. Read more
Unfortunately, in Malta the weather creates a somewhat difficult problem with respect to building design which provides indoor thermal comfort due to the extreme temperatures in summer and coldish temperatures in winter, and due to the high humidity level all year round. The effective bioclimatic principles which were used in old technologies have been almost abandoned. Modern buildings are designed on structural principles, rather than on thermal performance. This factor makes houses less thermally comfortable, creating the need for air-conditioning and the like, which in turn results in greater negative impact on the environment. Read more
Materials used for walls and floors influence energy consumption. Read more
Today it is estimated that we spend 80% of our lives indoors and we are also spending close to 100% of this time in temperature controlled environments with temperature-controlled amenities. The impact on energy use is immense. Read more
The building design process should be sensitive to the natural resources and landscape. This process is better known as ‘green’ building which means implementing a set of informed decisions that consider the site and materials to reduce the cost, maintenance, and energy usage of the home. ‘Green’ homes are healthier, safer, more comfortable, and cost less to operate. Following are some facts of how characteristics of a home can correlate to its comfort and to environmental concerns. Read more
