And Now For Something Completely Different!

[Undated Solar Plant in Spain]

I tip my hat to Spain for the planned changes to their building code mandating that new residential and commercial buildings be equipped with solar panels.

I am further impressed that although the new code will not be coming into effect until March 2007, the energy saving element was implemented on September 29th!

Under this new legislation new homes will have to be equipped with solar panels to provide between 30% - 70% of their hot water depending on where the building is located and on its expected water usage.

New commercial buildings, such as shopping centres and hospitals now must be equipped with photovoltaic panels to generate a portion of their electricity.

According to a joint statement from the Environment and Housing Ministries, it is expected that "the new standards will bring energy savings of 30% - 40% for each building and a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions from energy consumption of 40% - 55%".

Until now Spain's building standards have dated from the 1970's and have done little to encourage energy efficiency. According to Environment Minister Cristina Narbona, this new code is an effort to "...make up the time we have lost". As such, in addition to the solar panel component, this new code will also enforce the use of better insulation, improve the maintenance of heating and cooling systems and increase the use of natural light.

It is nice to see that rather then throw their arms up and say we are 'too far behind', Spain is taking real action to correct their past mistakes and make the world a better place for all.