Energy efficiency at building sites: barriers and drivers

The construction industry is an important societal sector and a major consumer of energy. Improved energy efficiency is important for this sector, but energy efficiency at construction sites has so far been under-researched. The aim of this article is to analyse the drivers of and barriers to improved energy efficiency at construction sites, as perceived by professional actors. The peer-reviewed research and the grey literature on the topic were reviewed, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 relevant professionals in Sweden. The identified barriers were related to lack of money, split incentives, lack of standards and procedures, low electricity prices, lack or regulations, lack of knowledge and information and the conservatism of the industry. The identified drivers were regulations forcing actors to implement energy efficiency, environmental and building certifications, internal education, be part of an industry network, engaged electricity utility company providing information, supportive top and site managers, competition between construction sites, the existence of a plan, checklists or project database, back-office support and client demand of energy efficiency.