Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of sustainability in the real estate sector. Buildings account for a significant share (~30%) of global energy consumption, making efficiency improvements essential for reducing environmental impact, cutting operational costs, and meeting climate commitments.
Since its inception in 2009, GRESB has been collecting data on energy consumption and energy efficiency measures. Energy performance has always been a key focus of the GRESB Real Estate Assessment, helping the industry track progress and benchmark improvements. Over the past decade, GRESB data shows an overall improvement of 13% in energy efficiency globally, aligning with findings from the International Energy Agency (IEA). However, the IEA’s Net Zero by 2050 report calls for a 4% annual improvement over the same period to stay on track, suggesting the current pace is insufficient.
In recent years, the GRESB Foundation has made energy efficiency a top priority, reflecting the industry’s shift toward a performance-based approach. As investors and stakeholders increasingly emphasize real-world outcomes, energy efficiency is recognized as a fundamental measure of portfolio performance and sustainability progress.
This page is dedicated to energy efficiency in real estate, providing insights into its assessment methodology, ongoing developments, key considerations, and opportunities for industry engagement. It helps you explore how GRESB is driving meaningful change and supporting the transition to a more efficient and sustainable built environment.
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Want to learn more about energy efficiency in the GRESB Real Estate Benchmark?
Sources
- https://www.iea.org/energy-system/buildings