Decarbonisation: better control of energy consumption through innovative technology.

In this way, it lays down objectives that take the form of, for example:

• RE 2020 for new buildings;
• The tertiary sector decree (tertiary buildings over 1000 m²), imposing progressive reductions in the energy consumption of this type of building;
• Decree no. 2023-444, known as the “thermostat decree”.
• Labels such as E+C-, BBC (standard for renovation) and Chantier Zéro Carbone…

In its plan for energy savings and decarbonization, the Action Logement group is highlighting a key area for action on the “use” perimeter of the building:

Better control of energy consumption through innovative techniques and the development of new consumption practices. A commitment that inspired this post.

This means using energy differently (better and at the right time) during the operating phase.

How can a building be decarbonized during its use phase?

As we have just seen, optimizing a building’s energy efficiency is crucial once it has been built. To significantly reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions, intelligent energy management systems and preventive maintenance of HVAC systems are essential. The IoT makes it possible to achieve both objectives.

While the energy performance of a building and the quality of its equipment are essential, many players are calling for occupants to adopt low-energy and responsible practices. On a day-to-day basis, changes in behavior include rational use of lighting, choosing low-energy appliances and putting them on standby or turning them off completely when not in use. These uses account for 17% of consumption. Domestic hot water and cooking account for 11% and 6% respectively.

However, the energy consumed in the residential sector is mainly used for heating (66% of consumption) (4). And here, we need to go further than a call for ecogestures, even if these have a strong educational value. The decarbonization of buildings therefore necessarily goes hand in hand with a far-reaching change in usage.

How can we go further in decarbonizing heating?

To reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions, we recommend installing a programmable thermostat. The problem, as our social landlord customers tell us, is that users don’t program their thermostats enough, if at all. They are more reluctant to do so in social housing (due to illiteracy, fear of error…), while at the same time, they are much more financially impacted by variations in energy costs.

Based on the observation that many users did not program their thermostats, French social housing players have validated the contribution of our Eco-Touch solution. A solution for automatic modulation of energy consumption based on an algorithmic model for learning actual energy needs.

Our users select the usage model best suited to them by simply indicating their absence from their home via a dedicated switch. The overall heating requirement of their home immediately adapts to “eco” mode (-3°C). And vice-versa on their return, to switch the home to “comfort” mode. In just a few days, our solution is able to anticipate energy needs based on this behavioral analysis. Programming is no longer necessary to achieve significant reductions in consumption and decarbonize usage, whatever the type of heating.

As a result, our solution saves an average of 300 kg CO2eq per year per home. This is why the French government is imposing a decarbonization trajectory framed by a series of regulations. The SNBC-2 (Stratégie Nationale Bas Carbone) “calls for a 48% reduction in emissions from the buildings sector by 2030.” (3)