Dutch utilities in environmental action with energy certificate

Gerbrand H. P. Wijers, Association of the Dutch Energy Distribution Companies, Holland

Keywords

Abstract

Energy saving is an appropriate answer on the problems of declining energy supplies and emission of greenhouse gases. When we use less energy -given a fixed level of comfort- we have more time for developing sustainable solutions. This paper will focus on energy savings in households. This means that more efficient usage of means of transportation and production will stay out of this picture.

Energy saving in homes can be realised in three ways:

Behaviour: Much energy is wasted by careless usage: for instance we light and heat rooms without living in;

Efficient equipment: Much energy is wasted because of non buying high energy efficient washing machines, heating boilers and fridges;

Insulation: Much energy is wasted when generated heat escapes through walls, roof and floor.

The effects of indoor energy saving are more comfortable homes, a lower energy bill and a better future for our children. Stimulating the usage of insulation and high efficient central heating boilers are the reasons behind the market introduction of the action energy certificate. Energy certificates award households that have taken measures to improve heat storage of their homes.