Understand Complex 'Zero Energy Building' with Just One Book

Published 24 Mar.2020 06:25(KST)

▲ Cover of the 'Zero Energy Building 2020 Certification Guide' (Provided by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport)

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Chun-hee] The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Korea Energy Agency announced on the 24th that they published the "Zero Energy Building 2020 Certification Guide," which includes certification methods and benefits upon acquisition, on the 9th of this month, following the mandatory implementation of zero energy building certification for public sector buildings starting this year.

Through the "2nd Basic Plan for Green Buildings (2020-2024)" announced in January, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport mandated zero energy building certification for public buildings with a total floor area of 1000㎡ or more starting this year. This guide was published to alleviate difficulties faced by frontline agencies due to unfamiliarity with specific work procedures in the early stages of mandatory implementation. Accordingly, it is expected to provide practical assistance to public institution building managers, building owners, and construction companies on the front lines.

The newly published guide contains information on how to apply for zero energy building certification, benefits upon certification, frequently asked questions, and related laws and regulations, structured to serve as a basic reference for zero energy buildings. In particular, frequently asked questions are organized in a Q&A format to resolve ambiguities in legal interpretation, and excellent cases of zero energy building certification are included to serve as references during project implementation.

From the 9th to the 13th, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Korea Energy Agency distributed the certification guide to a total of 1,086 institutions, including 227 local governments and 338 public institutions. The distributed guide can also be accessed through the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the Korea Energy Agency, and the "Green Building Portal Green Together." For additional information related to certification, inquiries can be made via the call center (1670-1507).

Kim Sang-moon, Director of Building Policy at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, said, "With the publication of this guide, we are continuously promoting zero energy building projects,” and added, “We will strive to create jobs through the activation of zero energy buildings and contribute to the development of industries related to zero energy buildings and renewable energy.”