Assessing the Importance of Biomass-Based Heating Systems for More Sustainable Buildings: A Case Study Based in Spain

Juan E. Pardo, Ana Mejías and Antonio Sartal ()
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Juan E. Pardo: Department of Business Organization and Marketing, University of Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain
Ana Mejías: Department of Business Organization and Marketing, University of Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain

Energies, 2020, vol. 13, issue 5, 1-19

Abstract: Climate change, other environmental impacts due to increased energy use worldwide, and the exhaustion of energy resources are some of the major challenges facing today’s society. Considering this, this paper assesses the importance of biomass-based heating and hot-water systems in the achievement of more sustainable buildings. Using a simplified calculation method, we jointly analyzed the potential operational cost savings and reduction of CO 2 emissions that would be achieved when the traditional energy model, based on the use of fossil fuels, is replaced by biomass-based heating systems. Evidence stems from a case study in public buildings in the province of Pontevedra, in the northwest of Spain. The results of this research not only show a huge impact on CO 2 emission reduction just by adapting the kind of fuel use, but also considerable annual cost reduction without compromising activity development and workers’ comfort. Thus, the findings obtained should encourage governments to support the transition toward cleaner sources of energy, acting as first movers toward a locally produced and renewable-based energy supply.

Keywords: biomass; energy saving; costs saving; building; public administration. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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