Evaluation of Residential Real Estate Energy-Rating Systems in Germany, and their Applicability to the United States

Abstract

Energy efficiency has become an increasingly important topic as economies globally race to combat climate change. Real estate is a major driver of global emissions, however also a key potential area for emissions reductions.

In Germany, residential real estate has been identified as a major source potential of emissions savings, given the impact of the sector. As such, energy efficiency systems have been implemented, providing transparency for property owners and renters. Motivated by cost-savings, the aspects of these systems pertain to energy production, energy mix use, and heating efficiency.

The United States as a country differs too strongly to allow for blind copying of the system in place in Germany. Its geographic size, climatic range, and population densities require a system of its own. Nevertheless, the lessons learnt from the German systems can help inspire initial steps towards effective American systems.