27 more Energy Conferences before Flanders is climate-robust
Meanwhile, the 14th Energy Congress, which took place last month, has brought us one step closer. This edition came about in cooperation with Flux50 and Techlink, and for the first time the programme filled a whole day. The theme of the day was climate-fit thanks to building innovation. What did we learn and what conclusions can we draw from a day full of speakers and workshops?
The energy transition is keeping us all busy. After a winter full of sharp energy price increases, the new law on renovation obligation in Flanders for those who buy a house was issued. These are some new developments in a world that keeps moving. That, and more, was discussed by various experts and the diverse group of participants at the 14th Energy Congress. This is how the event brings relevant players together for the exchange of knowledge and experience.
What conclusions did this yield? Of course, there is a lot to say about energy and the energy transition. Some topics stood out during the sessions and workshops. One is the need for an integral renovation approach, in which construction teams, ESCO companies and master plans will play an important role. With everyone in Flanders now obliged to renovate within five years of purchase, a big wave of work is sure to arrive. This requires a good, integrated approach. Also when it comes to apartment buildings: how do you start renovating when you have to decide this with several co-owners? This is where CondoReno, among others, hopes to provide a conclusive answer within a few years. In addition, the VEB should set a good example when renovating government buildings. Nothing inspires as much as a good example.
In addition, the government should also help remove stumbling blocks to energy sharing. Indeed, collective systems and installations offer too many advantages to simply let them pass by. Not only do they benefit the distribution network, there are also technical and economic advantages of scale. But to all get on the same page, we need proper regulation.
And besides regulation, we also need professionals with the right skills for the jobs of the future. Jobs that will be increasingly digital, adapting to the market of today and tomorrow and thus contributing to the energy transition. For this, we need schools and higher education. And, of course, people who take these courses. The lack of personnel is well known in the construction sector... Fortunately, all attendees showed great enthusiasm and commitment to work towards a better image for construction-related training and jobs. Sufficient hands, knowledge and new regulations are going to ensure that we face a climate-robust future. How will that go? The next Energy Congresses will show us!
