Energy efficiency in buildings is a strategic priority for the European Union and lies at the heart of policies focused on sustainability and the decarbonization of the construction sector. In this context, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and Building Automation and Control Systems (BACS) play a crucial role in reducing energy consumption and promoting the adoption of high-performance smart buildings.
This article explores these regulatory references and the advanced technological solutions offered by ISOIL Industria, designed to support energy optimization and renovation in compliance with European standards.
EPBD Directive: what is it and why is it essential for building energy efficiency?
In recent years, European legislation on building energy efficiency has undergone significant evolution. At the core of this transformation is the EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive), which has introduced new obligations and targets aimed at drastically reducing consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from both existing and future building stock.
One of the most relevant aspects of the updated EPBD is the mandatory introduction or upgrading of Building Automation and Control Systems (BACS) for all non-residential buildings with a system capacity exceeding 290 kW.
Functions of BACS in smart building energy management
BACS (Building Automation and Control Systems) represent a major technological advancement in building energy management. These are not merely basic control panels, but sophisticated systems capable of:
- Continuously monitoring and recording energy consumption
- Analyzing system performance to identify inefficiencies
- Dynamically adapting energy use based on environmental conditions
- Promptly detecting anomalies or drops in performance
- Optimizing indoor comfort and enabling predictive maintenance
Why is BACS installation mandatory in buildings?
The requirement to install BACS is driven by the need to optimize the operation of HVAC systems, which are among the primary sources of energy consumption. Through automation and intelligent control, BACS deliver tangible energy savings, improved occupant comfort, and contribute to achieving environmental sustainability goals.
UNI EN ISO 52120-1: the regulatory reference for building energy efficiency
The UNI EN ISO 52120-1 standard provides the technical framework for classifying and assessing the performance of building automation and control systems. It defines BACS functionality levels (from BACS Class C to BACS Class A) according to the degree of energy efficiency they can achieve.
Technologies for automation and Energy Efficiency
ISOIL Industria offers several solutions to achieve the highest levels of automation and energy efficiency in compliance with UNI EN ISO 52120-1, including the TherMAG Valve CS611, the MV311 communication module (also available in the SC version), and ISOMAG electromagnetic flow meters.
- The TherMAG Valve CS611 is a compact electronic valve that integrates regulation, balancing, and MID-certified thermal energy metering into a single unit. It can be programmed to regulate flow based on various parameters easily selected via BMS through Ethernet port or communication protocols (MODbus or BACnet), including:
- Flowrate
- Thermal power
- Temperature differential (?T)
- Inlet temperature (T1)
- Outlet temperature (T2)
- Differential pressure
- External signal from the process or BMS
- The MV311 is a thermal energy calculator compliant with MID MI004 (2014-32-EU Annex VI) and EN1434, designed to provide fast and accurate energy calculations in both heating and cooling systems, for civil and industrial use — ideal for retrofit projects.
- The MV311 Smart Control version includes an integrated Proportional-Integral (PI) controller that allows automatic regulation of valves, pumps, or any device supporting proportional control. It can operate in stand-alone mode or as part of a BMS system.
The user can freely configure the control logic based on one of five reference variables:- Flowrate
- Thermal power
- Delta T (AT)
- Supply temperature (T1)
- Return temperature (T2)
- Lastly, the ISOMAG meters, thanks to their high-precision electromagnetic technology and compatibility with additive-containing liquids, provide certified flow measurement. Their broad application flexibility makes them suitable for both heating and cooling systems.
All these tools are designed for seamless integration into modern building automation systems using MODbus and BACnet protocols over RS485 and IP, enabling continuous monitoring, dynamic regulation, and intelligent energy control — fully aligned with the efficiency and interoperability requirements of the EPBD and UNI EN ISO 52120-1.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main benefits of energy efficiency in buildings?
It reduces energy consumption and costs, improves comfort, increases property value, simplifies system management, and provides access to tax incentives and dedicated financing.
What is the EPBD Directive and why is it important?
It is the EU legislation that sets minimum energy performance requirements for buildings. It promotes energy efficiency and the adoption of BACS systems to reduce consumption and emissions.
How do BACS systems contribute to energy efficiency?
BACS (Building Automation and Control Systems) monitor, regulate, and optimize the operation of HVAC systems and other devices in real time, reducing energy waste and improving indoor comfort.
Is it possible to improve energy efficiency without major structural work?
Yes. Many automation and control technologies can be integrated without invasive renovations, enabling a gradual and sustainable improvement in efficiency.
How can I assess whether my building has energy efficiency improvement potential?
Through an energy audit supported by monitoring tools, which helps identify waste, critical issues, and areas for targeted intervention.
Are automation systems only suitable for large buildings?
No. Thanks to their modularity and scalability, BACS systems can be effectively implemented in medium and small buildings, such as offices, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Why is it important to rely on expert suppliers of measurement instruments?
Working with specialized suppliers like ISOIL ensures access to certified products and compliant solutions. This guarantees accurate measurements, reliable consumption control, and effective energy optimization—key factors for the success of any efficiency project.
For information, please do not hesitate to contact our specialists.