Abstract :
Energy consumption in the residential and tertiary sectors is especially high in developed
countries. There is a great potential for energy savings in these sectors. Energy conservation
measures are developed for newly constructed buildings and for buildings under refurbishment.
However, to achieve a significant reduction in energy consumption apart from the
standard energy-efficiency methods, innovative technologies should be implemented, including
renewable energy. Coherency of standard, modern energy efficiency and renewable
options becomes necessities. To approach the idea of sustainable buildings, a few developmental
steps are needed, regarding energy, water, land and material conservation, together
with environmental loading, and the qualities of the indoor and outdoor environments
