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How Renewable Energy is Revolutionising the Construction Industry

Craig Thornton our consultant managing the role
Published on 14 July 2023

Renewable energy has emerged as a game-changer in the construction industry, reshaping the way buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. This shift towards sustainable practices is driven by the urgent need to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions. In this blog post, we will explore how renewable energy is revolutionising the construction industry, highlighting the benefits, innovations, and key trends that are shaping a greener future for construction.

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Integration of Solar Power

Solar energy has become a cornerstone of the construction industry's renewable energy transition, allowing companies and sites to reduce their carbon footprint. The integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems into building designs has significantly reduced dependence on traditional power grids. Solar panels are increasingly being incorporated into the construction of new buildings and retrofitted onto existing structures, generating clean and sustainable electricity. The declining costs of solar panels and advancements in solar technology have made this renewable energy option more accessible and cost-effective for construction projects.

Harnessing Wind Power

Harnessing wind power is another key aspect of renewable energy adoption in construction. Wind turbines are being incorporated into the design of high-rise buildings and skyscrapers to capture wind energy at greater heights. These innovative wind-capturing systems can generate substantial amounts of electricity to power the building, reducing its reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Moreover, the construction of dedicated wind farms near construction sites provides an additional source of renewable energy for construction processes. Approximately 60,000 turbines have been built in the USA which can provide the necessary wind energy to all construction sites.

Geothermal Systems

Geothermal energy systems are making their mark in the construction industry as a sustainable heating and cooling solution and can reduce energy consumption by up to 50% compared to traditional cooling and heating systems. By utilising the constant temperature of the earth, geothermal heat pumps efficiently to regulate indoor climate control, reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based heating and cooling systems. Construction projects are increasingly incorporating geothermal systems, making buildings more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Energy-Efficient Building Materials

Renewable energy goes hand in hand with the use of energy-efficient building materials. The construction industry is now focusing on using sustainable and environmentally friendly materials such as bamboo, recycled steel, and energy-efficient glass. These materials not only reduce the carbon footprint of construction projects but also improve the overall energy efficiency and longevity of buildings.

Smart Building Technologies

The advent of smart building technologies has further accelerated the integration of renewable energy in construction. Advanced building management systems can optimise energy consumption, monitor renewable energy generation, and intelligently distribute power within a building. These technologies enable construction companies to maximise the efficiency of renewable energy systems and reduce waste, making buildings smarter, greener, and more sustainable.

Looking for a career in Renewable Energy?

Are you searching for a career in the thriving renewable energy industry? Look no further than Quanta. We’re passionate about uniting brilliant people with renewable energy jobs in brilliant organisations, and we’re committed to helping you advance your career in renewables. Contact us today to find out more.