en.Wedoany.com Reported - Improving energy efficiency in Portuguese buildings could reduce summer air conditioning demand by nearly 75%. According to data from the Portuguese Energy Agency (ADENE), nearly half of the country's certified properties have energy ratings between F and D, indicating generally low insulation levels in the existing housing stock. Summer heat leads to indoor heat accumulation, increasing residents' reliance on air conditioning and significantly raising electricity consumption, a phenomenon particularly pronounced during the hottest months of the year.

Against the backdrop of climate change and frequent heatwaves, improving building energy efficiency is not only crucial for carbon reduction but also helps alleviate pressure on the power grid. ADENE points out that enhancing building energy efficiency can reduce residential cooling demand by up to 75%, while also lowering household energy costs. The "Passive House" design standard has gained attention for its use of highly insulated and airtight building envelopes, a solution that stabilizes indoor temperatures year-round and significantly reduces the need for active air conditioning equipment. Rockwool states that this building model is a direct response to energy efficiency and climate adaptation needs. In addition to thermal insulation, stone wool materials offer soundproofing and high fire resistance, achieving European fire classification A1. The company claims the material's thermal performance can last at least 65 years. Miguel Ángel Gallardo, Director of Rockwool's Iberian Division, stated that investing in efficient retrofits and construction is not only about living comfort but also a concrete action to meet Portugal's and Europe's environmental and energy goals, as reducing building energy consumption helps cut emissions, ease grid pressure, and improve residents' quality of life.