Energy Issues in Building and District Assessment Schemes and Benchmarking Systems

In the Canton of Zurich an increasing number of customers in their business area for building energy solutions have been identified who have their properties certified with sustainability systems. They have to create regular reports or use benchmarks to optimise their properties with regard to energetic aspects. A large amount of detailed information is available on the use and differences of rating and certification systems. For stakeholders in the energy market sector, however, it is important to have the necessary information available on energy monitoring data and GHG (greenhouse gas) emission reporting for value creation. One promising concept is the 2000-Watt-Area. A 2000-Watt-Area (200WA) is a new form of settlement. It has achieved a reputation for energy efficiency, renewable energies and climate friendliness and reflects the values of a responsible society. In this work we try to find answers to the following questions: • Which evaluation criteria are the basis for the 2000WA? • How much can these urban areas lower their GHG emissions? • What role do the instruments of energy efficiency and renewable energies play in this? • What is the relationship between these and what statements can be made with regard to mobility? • How can the Facility Manager help to transform successfully into 2000WA? The paper is based on literature research and three interviews with stakeholders in the Swiss construction sector (a district representative, an energy consultant, a technology provider). The findings qualify the concept of 2000WA and put it into a wider international context of certification and benchmarking systems. It was found that 39 2000WA are in operation, implementation and transition in Switzerland. From the experience gained from these districts it can be seen that the 2000WA concept is trying to include important aspects of a sustainable transition of districts. While many districts were new developments (34), only 5 were districts in transformation. The number of districts in transformation need to increase considerably if the GHG emission reduction goals in Switzerland are to be met. Facility managers can play an important role in this transition. But they need to enhance their skills and responsibilities in order to fulfil their roles as transition managers. Evaluating the 2000WA can be a key to this and has the potential to enhance the reduction of GHG emissions in districts and cities