Sustainability in everyday life: Saving energy in your new condominium – 12 simple measures with a big impact
For new construction projects such as NaturResidenz Steglitz, energy efficiency is not a nice-to-have, but a key quality factor: modern building envelopes, efficient heating and ventilation technology, and sustainable building materials lay the foundation, but it is daily user behavior that turns technology into real savings and climate protection. This article presents 12 practical measures that buyers and residents of new apartments can use to continuously save energy and costs while increasing living comfort and value stability.
Why saving energy in new apartments is so beneficial
The building sector accounts for a large proportion of energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. New buildings with high energy efficiency can therefore make an important contribution to climate targets, reducing the burden on households, and ensuring the long-term value stability of real estate. EU and national regulations (e.g., efficiency house standards, EPBD) are driving this development forward—new buildings are increasingly being designed as nearly energy-neutral and sustainable facilities.
12 specific energy-saving measures for residents
1. Systematic heating in a condominium
Modern heat pumps and low-temperature heating systems work most efficiently at moderate flow temperatures. Even a slight reduction in room temperature can significantly lower energy consumption. Combined with smart thermostats, heating costs can be easily controlled (note: savings depend on the system and user behavior).
2. Proper and efficient ventilation
In well-insulated new buildings and condominiums, intermittent ventilation several times a day is a good approach. Leaving windows tilted open continuously leads to high heat loss and humidity problems. If you have a controlled ventilation system, regular maintenance will ensure optimal performance.
3. Reduce hot water consumption
Hot water production is a major energy consumer in the household. Shorter shower times, efficient shower heads, and moderate hot water temperatures reduce consumption without compromising comfort.
4. Use household appliances sparingly
Energy-saving programs, full loads, and lower washing temperatures significantly reduce electricity and water consumption. Energy-saving appliances also increase the attractiveness of the home when it comes to resale. KfW and energy agencies, for example, recommend energy-efficient appliances as part of an overall concept.
5. LED lighting & smart control
LEDs significantly reduce power consumption. Combined with presence detection and dimming functions, lighting costs can be minimized even further.
6. Avoid standby mode
Many modern devices consume power in standby mode. Power strips with switches and conscious switching off reduce this energy consumption in a targeted manner.
7. Strategic use of sun protection & shading
Lowering roller shutters in winter and using sun protection in summer reduces heating and cooling requirements.
8. Cooking, keeping warm & using residual heat
When cooking, it is advisable to use a lid, switch off the stove in good time, and use the residual heat of the oven.
9. Balcony, loggia, and greening for climate adaptation
Plants on balconies, terraces, or loggias in a condominium in particular create shade, improve the microclimate, and reduce overheating in summer, thereby reducing the need for active cooling.
10. Making consumption visible
Transparency works: smart metering and visualizations show consumption in real time and motivate lasting behavioral changes. The EU and national programs promote digital modernization as a lever for efficiency.
11. Mobility & neighborhood
A neighborhood with good public transport connections, bicycle infrastructure, and charging options for e-mobility makes residents less dependent on cars. Steglitz offers exactly these conditions: proximity to public transport, shopping, and green spaces reduces the need for commuting.
12. Low-pollutant and durable furnishings and building materials
Sustainable, low-pollutant materials improve healthy living and have lower life cycle costs, a clear advantage for residents and owners.
Practical checklist for buyers
Before buying: Ask questions about building services, efficiency standards (e.g., energy efficiency rating), ventilation, and smart metering.
When moving in: Set up consumption monitoring, identify standby power traps, check LED lighting.
In everyday life: Adjust ventilation and heating habits, use appliances efficiently, plan balcony greening.
Sources
Umweltbundesamt (UBA) — UMLANDSTADT umweltschonend – Nachhaltige Verflechtung von Wohnen, Arbeiten, Erholung und Mobilität.
Umweltbundesamt (UBA) — Kommissionspapier / Empfehlungen zum klimafreundlichen Neubau / Wohnungsbau
KfW — Neubau: Was ist ein Effizienzhaus?
European Commission — Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) / In focus: Energy efficiency in buildings
International Energy Agency (IEA) — Developing a Global Energy Efficiency Workforce in the Buildings Sector
