Energy efficiency without compromising living comfort

In Finland, energy consumption of buildings represents 39 per cent of total energy consumption, corresponding to 30 per cent of total greenhouse gas emissions. The most significant environmental impact of VVO’s operations is down to the energy consumption of properties.

Energy savings enable us to control the increase in maintenance costs and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Energy costs (heating, electricity and water) account for approximately 36 per cent of VVO's property maintenance expenses. Without savings, the share of energy costs would have increased a great deal in the 2000s because of rising energy prices.

Efficiencies in energy use in VVO’s housing stock are mainly carried out through maintenance and operating measures, without compromising comfort and living conditions. VVO’s operations are based on healthy and safe living conditions and, in recent years, these have been increasingly monitored. Room temperature measurements and ventilation checks are carried out automatically in new properties. Regular sample measurements are taken in older properties. Increased monitoring data helps us to ensure that property settings are at an energy-efficient level and optimum indoor conditions are maintained in our apartments.

As part of our new construction and renovation projects, VVO contributes to the development of efficient life-cycle solutions for residential buildings. Tightened construction regulations also guide us towards energy efficiency. In the future, VVO will use heat pumps to increase heat recovery ventilation in its housing stock.


Case

 

Energy efficiency from building automation and solar power

In November 2013, VVO and Caverion signed an agreement on installing building technology in a residential building in Tikkurila, Vantaa. The agreement covers the entire building technology (HVAC and automation) planning and implementation.

The new residential building of Asunto Oy Vantaan Lauri Korpisen katu 10 is located close to Tikkurila railway station, next to the future transport interchange. With 188 apartments, it will be the largest project in VVO's history. The project covers automated ventilation control for the building.

The share of energy costs of property maintenance expenses has increased in the industry throughout the 2000s. New construction seeks to ensure appropriate and comfortable living conditions without compromising on energy efficiency.

Energy efficiency and tightening building energy regulations provided the starting point for the Tikkurila project plan. The chosen building technology solutions combine energy efficiency with ease of living. Particular attention has been paid to indoor air conditions, such as temperature management and ventilation.

The advanced building automation system can be used to adjust a number of settings, such as floor heating in the wet areas or the amount of ventilation in a single apartment when it is empty. Renewable energy will be provided by solar power, covering to a large extent the electricity consumption of ventilation units and pumps.

 

Development of the specific consumption of heat, water and electricity

(2009=100)20092010201120122013
Heating energy10096959391
Water10098979695
Electricity10099959492