Rising energy costs and international instability are driving greater interest among Luxembourg residents in saving energy and switching to renewable sources.
According to Fenn Faber, director of the Klima-Agence, people from all walks of life are now rethinking their energy choices. This, in Faber's eyes, is crucial to advancing the country’s energy transition.
Faber explains that the ongoing conflict in Iran and persistently high energy prices are causing concern, but they are also encouraging people to reconsider how they use energy.
Many are not only seeking advice on running their heating systems more efficiently, but are also considering major structural changes to their homes, reflecting a growing desire to become more resilient and less exposed to fluctuating prices.
According to Faber, one of the easiest ways for households to begin the transition is by installing photovoltaic panels, which are suitable for almost every property.
However, the system should be sized to match individual consumption, particularly if an electric car or heat pump may be added later.
Heat pumps have become standard in new buildings as a sustainable alternative to oil or gas heating, Faber highlights.
In older homes, suitability must be assessed case by case, but Faber says there were few situations in which a heat pump would not work, provided the property was well insulated.
Underfloor heating is not essential, although some radiators may need replacing.
Residents are advised to look into their options early rather than waiting for their current system to break down, to consult several installers and to seek advice from the Klima-Agence, which can help assess quotes.
For those unsure whether a heat pump would keep their home warm enough, Faber suggests lowering the flow temperature on their existing heating system to the level typically used by heat pumps, so they can test whether they are comfortable in advance.
Demand for electric vehicles is also rising, as prices fall and the range of models improves, Faber explains.
The Klima-Agence aims to provide impartial information and encourages sceptical buyers to seek advice and, above all, to take a test drive before deciding.
After this summer’s heatwaves, many residents are also considering air conditioning, he pointed out. The Klima-Agence generally recommends first taking steps to keep heat out of the home or making structural changes.
On air conditioning, Faber notes that it should only be installed as a last resort and, ideally, combined with solar panels to offset the extra electricity use.
