Analysis and Cross-Comparison of Business Models for nearly Zero-Energy Buildings in Europe

Nearly Zero-Energy Buildings (nZEBs) will be the standard for new constructions in Europe from 2019 (public buildings) and 2021 (private buildings). Even though several technologies for realizing nZEBs are already available, their market penetration in Europe is still low. This can be ascribed to both high initial investment for nZEBs and limited adequate business models for several stakeholders along the buildings' lifecycle. The aim of this paper is to present and analyse examples of existing business models for nZEBs in different European countries. A broad overview of these business models, accompanied by evidence of their key factors and strengths is essential for developing new business models that ensure a cost-optimal nZEB implementation and adequate profitability for all stakeholders involved. Therefore, at first business models of different European markets and nZEB lifecycle phases are searched for and described in a profile-like manner. Secondly, the key factors and strengths of each business model are pointed out. In the end, a cross-comparison of the business models is done according to some key parameters, such as involved stakeholders and covered life cycle phases. This knowledge serves as a basis for the development of innovative nZEB business models. The work presented in this paper is developed in the frame of EU funded project CRAVEzero Cost Reduction and market Acceleration for Viable nearly zero-Energy buildings which is cofunded by the Intelligent Energy Europe Programme within the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme of the European Union.