Energy is part of practically every aspect of our routine. Whether it's turning on a light, watching a program on TV, driving a car or using a cell phone. However, among these everyday actions, a crucial consideration arises: how can we make our use of energy more efficient and responsible? In this article, we present the principles of energy efficiency and show how Senna Building adopts this approach consciously and strategically in its construction projects.
What is energy efficiency?
Energy efficiency can be defined as the ability to obtain the same result or service using the least amount of energy possible, eliminating waste. In simple terms, it means doing more with less energy, without sacrificing performance, comfort or quality of life. For example, an efficient light bulb provides the same light while consuming less electricity, and a well-insulated building maintains its indoor temperature while using less heating or cooling. It's about optimizing the use of energy resources in a responsible and intelligent way, achieving the same results with less energy consumption. This optimization involves advanced technologies, sustainable practices and conscious habits, ranging from small everyday actions to complex industrial processes. In short, energy efficiency means reducing unnecessary energy consumption and maximizing the use of the energy we do use - all without compromising the functionality of equipment or people's well-being.
But what is the real benefit of energy efficiency?
1. Financial savings
Consuming less energy translates into a direct reduction in operating costs, both for homes and businesses. Efficient equipment, adequate lighting and optimized air conditioning solutions generate significant savings in the short, medium and long term.
2. Environmental sustainability
Energy efficiency contributes to lower CO₂ emissions and reduces pressure on natural resources. It is a concrete response to environmental challenges and an essential step towards a greener, more balanced future.
3. Property valuation and reputation
Energy-efficient projects increase the value of real estate and reinforce the image of companies as responsible, modern brands committed to innovation and the environment.
4. Comfort and quality of life
Better air-conditioned, quieter environments adapted to the intelligent use of energy provide greater thermal and acoustic comfort, promoting well-being and health on a daily basis.
What consumes the most energy at home (Portugal):
Cozinha/Kitchen - Aquecimento do ambiente/Space heating - Equipamentos elétricos/Electrical appliances - Aquecimento a gás/Gas heating Iluminação/Lighting - Ar condicionado/Air conditioning
How energy efficiency is used in the construction sector:
1. Smart design from the start
- The orientation of the house is designed to take advantage of the sun in winter and protect it in summer.
- The positioning of windows, eaves and outdoor spaces contributes to natural thermal comfort, reducing the need for heating and cooling.
2. Quality thermal insulation
- Efficient homes have well-insulated walls, roofs and floors, with materials such as mineral wool, polyurethane or cork.
- The windows are double or triple glazed with thermal break, preventing heat loss in winter and excess heat in summer.
3. Efficient air conditioning systems
- Aerothermal heat pumps are used for heating, cooling and domestic hot water - with much lower consumption than traditional systems.
- Underfloor heating and heat recovery ventilation systems ensure continuous and efficient comfort.
4. Integrated solar energy
- Installation of photovoltaic solar panels to generate electricity and thermal solar panels to heat water.
- Houses can include batteries to store the energy produced during the day and use it at night.
5. Efficient lighting and appliances
- The entire house is equipped with LED lighting and appliances with energy class A or higher.
- Motion sensors, dimmers and home automation systems help prevent waste.
6. Home automation and intelligent control
- Connected systems allow you to control lights, air conditioning, blinds and even energy consumption, all from a cell phone or digital assistant.
- This guarantees not only savings, but also everyday comfort and practicality.
7. A+ energy certification
- The aim is to build houses with an A or A+ energy rating, which increases the value of the property and guarantees maximum efficiency.
- In many cases, it is possible to achieve the “nearly zero energy home (nZEB)” standard required for new buildings in the UE.
What is the energy efficiency label anyway?
When we talk about saving energy and making conscious choices, it's impossible not to mention the energy efficiency label. Present on household appliances, air conditioning systems and even real estate, this label indicates the level of energy consumption, using a scale that goes from A (very efficient) to G (very inefficient).
The closer you get to the letter A, the less you consume and the more you save on your energy bill. Choosing equipment and solutions with an A rating or higher is also a way of actively contributing to a more sustainable future - a commitment we take very seriously in Senna Building's turnkey projects, where efficiency is part of every decision, from planning to final delivery.
Senna Building and Energy Efficiency
At Senna Building, we believe that a house should be more than just beautiful. It should be efficient, comfortable and prepared for the future. That's why we apply energy efficiency solutions to every detail of our projects, ensuring savings, sustainability and long-term value for the property. Talk to us and find out how we can turn your idea into a smart, efficient and tailor-made project.