Energy efficiency labeling program for buildings in Brazil compared to the United States' and Portugal's

Abstract

Regulations are being promulgated and reviewed in order to achieve the maximum energy savings in buildings, both in developed and in developing countries. One important strategy employed to turn these laws and regulations effective is through building certification. The benefit of such practice may reflect in energy savings, reduction of carbon dioxide emissions, to end-users and real estate owners. The objective of this study is to make a literature review concerning energy efficiency policies and regulations for buildings, highlighting how the Brazilian labeling program can be improved compared to the United States and Portugal programs. It is important to point out that the Brazilian program is under consolidation in comparison with the Portuguese and American ones. Furthermore, the assessment shows that: (i) although it is an initiative in the interest of society and it is meant to several types of buildings, the Brazilian labeling program does not inform suggestions for the building improvements; (ii) it is not mandatory; (iii) it does not value net-zero energy building; (iv) it does not inform the CO2 emissions savings; and (vi) it is not sufficiently stringent to challenge the building industry to improve the efficiency levels.