Electrification is coming to buildings in order to reduce emissions and save energy

The road towards decarbonisation involves the electrification of all sectors, including the building sector. This sector is currently responsible for 30% of final energy consumption in Spain and 25% of greenhouse gas emissions, according to data from the Green Building Council (GBCe).

At a European level, it is estimated that the energy consumed by buildings represents 40% of total energy consumed and 75% of that energy is produced from fossil fuels, whose use produces the emission of gases that pollute the atmosphere and are toxic to life. 

Energy use in buildings worldwide

Internal heating is the main use of energy in buildings worldwide. It accounts for about one-third of the final energy, while heating water and cooking each account for about one-fifth.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the demand for electricity for internal cooling will grow annually by 1% to reach 2,500 TWh by 2050.

If we improve the energy efficiency of newly constructed and refurbished buildings, we can reduce emissions by 10% by 2050, according to BloombergNEF (BNEF). The largest reduction would be achieved through the electrification of buildings, using efficient heat pumps and electric cooking systems and heaters. Heat pumps use four times less energy than gas boilers.

To decarbonise buildings, digitalisation is a key factor. The advantages of integrating digital solutions into buildings include being able to analyse data to give information in real time that enables the optimisation of energy efficiency and the improvement of smart device management. But this is not the only advantage.

Why should I commit to an electrified home?

A commitment to the electrification of homes provides a number of benefits, not only for the planet, but also for the lives of the people who decide to do so.

An electrified home offers multiple savings options as it is the most efficient option and, therefore, the one that requires the least energy consumption to provide the desired comfort in homes. With advances such as aerothermal solutions, underfloor heating and heat pumps, we can also reduce the cost of air conditioning.

As a result of electrification, total energy expenditure per household for an average Enel customer is expected to decrease by 40% by 2030, whilst greenhouse gases are expected to be reduced by 80%.

Another of the most outstanding benefits of this type of home is with regard to safety. The management of energy and handling devices that use it is much safer and considerably reduces the risk of domestic gas-related accidents. In fact, thanks to electrification, children can become involved in some of the usual household chores with greater peace of mind. This is also possible due to a rise in home automation.

Finally, it is also important to mention the possibility of self-production of energy within the home. This opportunity becomes a great advantage since it enables the incorporation of self-sufficiency and self-consumption into people's lives, making them a participant in their energy management model using renewable energy sources.

Advantages of electrification in buildings

Smart solutions, synonymous with comfort and safety in the home

When thinking of electrified homes, we should think of much more than just electricity. More and more people are turning their homes into connected spaces because, if you know how to use it, technology can make your life much more comfortable, easy and safe.

Endesa offers different digital solutions with regard to electricity and gas installations and energy consumption, to help customers create more sustainable homes. One of these solutions is the installation of solar panels and charging stations for those who are also committed to sustainable mobility by using electric vehicles.

All these solutions will enable us to be more efficient in energy consumption and contribute to decarbonisation from our own homes and companies. Electrification makes our lives easier and ensures a sustainable future.