Energy Efficiency Surges to Top Spot in Building Decarbonization Efforts: Siemens Report
WARSAW, [Date] – In a significant shift signaling a new urgency in the fight against climate change, a new report from Siemens reveals that improving energy efficiency is now the leading priority for companies aiming to decarbonize their buildings and maintain a competitive edge. The findings, released today from the Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor 2025, mark a dramatic leap from 2023, when energy efficiency ranked seventh in importance. This breaking news underscores a growing recognition that smart investments in energy reduction are not just environmentally responsible, but also financially prudent.
From Seventh Place to Number One: A Rapidly Evolving Landscape
The Siemens study, which surveyed 1,400 executives and government officials across 19 countries in the energy, building, and industrial sectors, paints a clear picture: the pressure to reduce carbon footprints is intensifying. But it’s not just about doing the right thing; it’s about survival. Rising energy prices and the initial high costs of upgrades are major hurdles, but the report highlights a growing appetite for solutions that address these challenges head-on. More than half of those surveyed (57%) are planning increased investment in energy efficiency in the coming year, alongside intelligent building technology (55%) and electrification of building systems (54%).
The Rise of ‘Energy-as-a-Service’ and Digitalization
One key takeaway from the report is the increasing appeal of innovative financing models. Siemens is championing “Energy-as-a-Service” (EaaS) models, leveraging Siemens Financial Services to shift the financial burden from large upfront capital expenditures (CapEx) to predictable, results-oriented operating expenses (OpEx). This means companies pay for energy savings and reduced CO2 emissions – a win-win scenario that removes a significant barrier to entry.
But technology isn’t just about financing; it’s about *how* we achieve these savings. Digitalization is emerging as a critical enabler, with 55% of respondents believing it has a strong or transformative impact on energy efficiency. Expectations are high: 56% anticipate cost reductions, and 55% foresee improvements in employee health and safety through the implementation of digital technologies.
Autonomous Buildings: The Future is Now
Susanne Seitz, CEO Buildings at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, emphasizes the strategic importance of buildings in the broader infrastructure transition. “Buildings are increasingly recognized as strategic assets,” she states, “with technologies such as AI, digital platforms, and autonomous systems acting as catalysts.” The vision is clear: autonomous buildings that proactively optimize energy usage, detect faults before they escalate, and create healthier, more comfortable environments for occupants. This isn’t science fiction; it’s a rapidly approaching reality.
Data: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle
Despite the enthusiasm for digitalization, a significant challenge remains: data. The report reveals that only half (50%) of companies currently possess the data necessary to make informed decarbonization decisions. This underscores the vital role of smart building technologies in providing the visibility needed to understand energy and emissions profiles, plan effective modernizations, and optimize maintenance schedules. Improving data visibility is considered the second biggest benefit of these technologies, right after achieving a high return on investment.
This isn’t just about large corporations either. The principles of energy efficiency and smart building management apply to buildings of all sizes, from small businesses to residential complexes. The tools and technologies are becoming increasingly accessible, and the financial incentives are growing stronger. The time to act is now, not just for the planet, but for the bottom line.
As the building sector continues to evolve, driven by innovation and a growing sense of urgency, archyde.com will remain at the forefront, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on the latest developments in sustainable infrastructure and smart building technologies. Stay tuned for further updates and expert commentary on this rapidly changing landscape.