Without Digital, Interconnected Building Technology, ESG and Regulatory Requirements Will Fail

Only digital, interconnected building technology can meet future regulatory requirements and create competitive advantages for property owners at the same time.

Germany's decarbonisation targets (climate neutrality by 2045) and the EU's 2050 goals, along with associated regulatory requirements, make the digitalisation of building technology in larger non-residential buildings essential — not only for new constructions but also for existing ones. In this context, digitalisation means linking and connecting building technology online, making it digitally accessible.

The necessity and benefits of digital building technology are rooted in two key factors: first, existing regulations already mandate initial steps, with stricter requirements on the horizon. Second, digitalisation offers property owners and operators significant economic advantages that can lead to competitive benefits.

The German Building Energy Act (GEG) already mandates many non-residential buildings to make HVAC system energy consumption data digitally accessible via a standardised, configurable interface.

The 2024 version of the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) stipulates that technical building systems must communicate seamlessly — irrespective of manufacturer or technology. Germany has until 2026 to incorporate these requirements into national law. Once adopted, this will essentially necessitate comprehensive digitalisation of building technology.

Additionally, systems are required to undergo regular inspections to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. While this can be done manually, it is significantly more efficient using digital processes. Future requirements, such as monitoring indoor air quality and meeting specific energy efficiency classes, will further accelerate this shift.

Beyond meeting regulatory obligations, the digital networking of building technology delivers tangible economic benefits. Reduced energy consumption and emissions lower operating costs for owner-occupied properties and enhance the appeal of rental spaces. For landlords, this means stronger negotiation positions and the potential for higher rents. Low emissions and high efficiency also boost property valuations. Furthermore, digital building technology provides numerous additional benefits:

• Transparency: Improved visibility of energy consumption and technical system performance.
• Cost Efficiency: Simplified (remote) maintenance by technical service providers.
• Flexibility: More flexibility in integrating new systems, such as photovoltaics or storage technologies, or in connecting to smart city concepts.
• Simplified Reporting: Streamlined compliance reporting through digital data availability.
• Workplace Efficiency: Smarter management of room temperatures and lighting.
• Optimised Energy Use: Enhanced utilisation of self-generated energy (e.g., photovoltaic systems, geothermal energy).

The journey to digitalisation varies significantly depending on the building's current setup. Modern buildings with advanced automation may already have linked and digitally connected systems. If smart meters are installed, the path to a cloud-based, autonomous, and continuously optimizing control solution for HVAC systems—with high, automatically generated energy savings—is within reach. This means a powerful predictive control system that quickly pays off.

For older buildings lacking such infrastructure, foundational requirements must be established first.

A practical approach is to combine digitalisation efforts with specific use cases, such as measurable energy consumption reductions or compliance with regulatory requirements. This not only helps demonstrate the value of digitalisation but, in some cases, allows for precise benefit calculations.

Digital, cloud-based services and processes for building technology will become standard in the real estate sector. Without them, regulatory compliance is unattainable. Moreover, digitalisation helps maintain property value, offers attractive and cost-efficient spaces for tenants and owner-occupiers, and ensures property owners remain competitive.

Recogizer is the reliable partner for transforming buildings towards sustainability, efficient operation, and regulatory compliance.