Effective data management and the strategic use of technology deliver significant energy and water efficiency in buildings.
From design and construction to the operational phase, digital technologies simplify works while increasing affordability, health, and comfort for building occupants.
Digital energy and water efficiency technologies and software are mature and readily available.
Smart renovations are most successful when they start with a clear roadmap, assessing both the physical condition of the building envelope and the digital readiness of systems, and proceed in parallel across both domains. This dual approach reduces total renovation costs, prevents technology lock-ins, and maximises buildings’ potential to act as flexible actors in the energy market.
What are digital energy and water efficiency technologies?
The application of data in energy efficiency is driven by a set of interoperable technologies. While innovation is constantly improving performance, this equipment and software are available ‘off the shelf’.
Building Management Systems (BMS)
Centralised platforms that collect and control building systems data. BMS integrate HVAC, lighting, security, and fire safety systems to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
Smart Meters and Submeters
Provide granular insights into electricity, gas, and water consumption, enabling targeted interventions at the zone or equipment level.
Internet of Things (IoT) Devices
Sensors and actuators that monitor occupancy, temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels. These devices feed real-time data into BMS and digital platforms for adaptive control.
Digital Twins and Simulation Software
Virtual replicas of physical buildings used for scenario testing and optimisation throughout the building lifecycle. They enable simulation of occupant behaviour, energy flows, Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) conditions and environmental impact.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
Analyse historical and real-time data to identify patterns and optimise operations. AI can automate fault detection, forecast energy demand, and suggest operational improvements as well as preventive maintenance operations.
Our webinars on smart buildings
10 February 2026
Delivering the EPBD on the Ground: Smart Buildings
We explored how Smart Buildings and Smart Construction practices are transforming the way buildings are designed, operated, and regulated across Europe.
Bringing together perspectives from the European Commission, industry leaders, and policy experts, the discussion examined how digital solutions, lighting innovation, building automation, and thermal comfort are driving energy efficiency, performance, and user comfort.
4 June 2021
Ensuring the uptake of smarter solutions for better performing buildings
How digital and smart solutions can boost the digitalisation of our buildings while improving their data and strengthening their role in smart sector integration.
5 October 2020
Digital is the new green: how will the ICT sector help roll out the Renovation Wave?
Part of our Mini Online Workshops on the Renovation Wave, this webinar looked at the role of digital technologies and the ICT sector.
13 February 2019
Smart and technology-equipped buildings, key features of the amended EPBD
Part of our series presenting the EuroACE Guide to the Implementation of the amended EPBD, organised with the BUILD UP platform.
Examples of relevant EU legislation, initiatives and projects on the digitalisation of buildings
Energy Performance of Buildings Directive
Requires building automation and control systems in larger non-residential buildings, supports the Smart Readiness Indicator and gives owners better access to their building data.
Brings together the Commission and the construction ecosystem to work on its green and digital transition.
Construction transition pathway
Sets out actions for the green and digital transition of construction, including the wider use of digital tools such as building information modelling (BIM).
Strategic Roadmap for digitalisation and AI in the energy sector
Looks at how digital tools and artificial intelligence can make the energy system, including buildings, more efficient and flexible.
Allow public buyers to require digital tools such as building information modelling in public works, so public projects can drive digital construction.
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