Danes embrace energy efficiency with building improvements

Denmark has experienced a rise in energy efficiency improvements in homes and buildings nationwide. A new report from the Danish Energy Agency highlights an increase in practical energy upgrades, recommendations, and cost-effective building improvements over the last five years.

By State of Green | [email protected]

2 December 2024

Energy efficiency in buildings

Energy efficiency is one of the easiest ways to eliminate energy waste, lower energy costs, and reduce the use of fossil fuels. There is great potential for efficiency improvements in the built stock. Enhanching energy efficiency in buildings is an embedded part of Denmark’s mindset, as Denmark has worked with energy efficiency measures since the 70s.

Discover energy efficiency

Over the past five years, Denmark has seen an increase in energy efficiency improvements across homes and buildings. New data from the 2024 Energy Labelling Scheme Status Report by the Danish Energy Agency shows a shift toward higher energy ratings, reflecting efforts to enhance building efficiency.

The proportion of buildings rated A to C has risen from 54% in 2019 to 61% in 2023, while buildings rated D to G have decreased from 46% to 39%. Improvements such as roof insulation, window replacements, and solar panel installations have contributed to this development.

“Many Danes have realised the economic and environmental benefits of energy improvements. This is a positive development, and we are committed to ensuring it continues.” Iben Møller Søndergård, Deputy Director of the Danish Energy Agency

Denmark's energy labels for buildings

The Energy Labelling Scheme in Denmark helps improve building energy efficiency by assessing and rating properties from A to G, with A being the most efficient. Certified consultants provide detailed evaluations and cost-effective recommendations for improvements, such as roof insulation and solar panel installation.

Energy-labelling of buildings is mandatory in Denmark. The aim is to promote energy savings by visualising the amount of energy that a building consumes and by outlining the energy-saving possibilities. Likewise, it is mandatory to have an energy performance certificate (EPC) when selling or renting out buildings in Denmark.

Read more about energy labels for buildings

Key trends: Insulation and solar panel installation

Certified energy labelling firms assess the energy performance of buildings and provide detailed reports, including cost-effective savings recommendations. This ensures that energy efficiency measures are not only beneficial for the environment but also financially sound.

Between 2019 and 2023, around 900,000 cost-effective suggestions were made, with the most popular recommendations including:

Roof insulation (167,730 suggestions)
Installation of solar panels (127,726 suggestions)
External wall insulation (104,384 suggestions)
Replacement of windows and external doors (98,036 suggestions)
Insulation of heating pipes (59,592 suggestions)

These improvements not only lower energy consumption but also contribute to the wider goals of reducing emissions and promoting sustainable living.

Energy efficiency for healthy buildings and better living

Improving energy efficiency and performance of household buildings can cut down energy usage and optimise the indoor environment. Learn more about the Danish approach to energy efficiency in its building stock.

Denmark’s approach to energy optimise its building stock

The Energy Labelling Scheme is one of many initiatives introduced by Denmark to reduce energy consumption, lower emissions, and support broader climate goals. By providing clear and accessible information about a building’s energy performance, the scheme helps property owners identify areas for improvement while promoting sustainable practices.

From smart energy systems to holistic sustainability methods, the Danish approach to energy efficiency in buildings can serve as a source of inspiration for other countries.

Learn more: The Danish approach: six ways to accelerate energy efficiency in buildings