Search

Looking at modern options of energy conservation in buildings it is necessary to assure energy efficiency first. When the energy load of a building is highly decreased, then innovative options of energy conservation can be introduced. The background and development of the main modern methods for the reduction of energy needs, final and primary energy consumption are analyzed. Differentiation between options for existing and newly constructed buildings is pointed out. Modern options of energy conservation in buildings are focused on innovative architecture, shape, structure, materials of a building and of course systems utilizing renewable energy. A very simple way of reducing building energy needs is the utilization of solar energy in a passive, but planned way. A specific shape of solar buffer space should be created in the building. In high latitude countries the buffer space should be of a specific design containing two cuboid sub-spaces with specific internal overhang and a well-planned extension of the south glazed facade. The paper presents modern renewable energy technologies as technologies with roots in past ideas of using the environment in an effective way. It underlines that future innovative and efficient building technologies will use building integrated renewable, mainly solar technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integration of renewable energy and optimization of energy use are key enablers of sustainable energy transitions and mitigating climate change. Modern technologies such the Internet of Things (IoT) offer a wide number of applications in the energy sector, i.e, in energy supply, transmission and distribution, and demand. IoT can be employed for improving energy efficiency, increasing the share of renewable energy, and reducing environmental impacts of the energy use. This paper reviews the existing literature on the application of IoT in in energy systems, in general, and in the context of smart grids particularly. Furthermore, we discuss enabling technologies of IoT, including cloud computing and different platforms for data analysis. Furthermore, we review challenges of deploying IoT in the energy sector, including privacy and security, with some solutions to these challenges such as blockchain technology. This survey provides energy policy-makers, energy economists, and managers with an overview of the role of IoT in optimization of energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]