SRI FAQ Guide

Find here the answer to common questions about SRI.

This FAQ site is part of the Smart Square project, which aims to develop and deliver the appropriate tools and applications to enable the promotion and establishment of intelliegence assessment of buildings in Europe, through the SRI scheme.

Find Categories from here…

Definition

Benefits

Obstacles & challenges

Complexity

Mandatory

Calculation

Assessment

Assessor

Methodology

Users

Certification

Building types

Building performance & energy efficiency

Climate zones

Domains

Programs & Incentives

Availability & implementation in Member States

Documentation & tools

Energy companies / other companies

Devices

Regulation

Programs & Incentives

Are there any programs or initiatives in place to help countries improve their SRI scores?

Yes, there are various programs and initiatives in place to help countries improve their Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) scores. The European Union, for instance, has been actively promoting the adoption and enhancement of the SRI through policies, funding programs, and research initiatives. These efforts aim to support member states in implementing energy-efficient measures, integrating smart technologies, and fostering the development of sustainable and smart buildings. Additionally, national, and local governments may introduce incentives, grants, or funding schemes to encourage building owners and stakeholders to improve their SRI scores and enhance the smart readiness of their buildings.

What about split incentives? Owners invest in this technology, but users get the benefit. Would that be a problem?

The issue of split incentives, where building owners invest in smart technologies, but tenants or users benefit from the energy savings, can be a challenge in some cases. This misalignment of incentives can create a barrier to implementing energy-efficient measures and smart technologies in buildings. However, it can be addressed through various mechanisms such as lease agreements that allocate savings between owners and tenants, providing incentives or subsidies to building owners to encourage investment in energy-efficient upgrades, or implementing innovative financing models that share the costs and benefits between owners and users. Clear communication, collaboration, and policy frameworks that promote shared benefits and incentives can help overcome the split incentive challenge and drive the adoption of smart technologies for the mutual benefit of owners and users.

Could the SRI be a relevant indicator for some government incentives for improvement of old buildings?

Yes, the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) could be a relevant indicator for government incentives aimed at improving old buildings. By assessing the smart readiness and energy efficiency of existing buildings, the SRI can help identify areas for improvement and guide the allocation of incentives to encourage retrofits, upgrades, and the adoption of smart technologies in order to enhance the energy performance and sustainability of older buildings.