Making Buildings More Energy-Efficient in South Africa

The passive thermal control technology project uses a combination of heat- and light reflective roof coating and traditional thermal insulation that significantly increases the energy efficiency of buildings. The thermal insulation largely acts as a barrier to heat flow or heat transfer from the building (heat loss during the colder months), whereas cool-coated roofs prevent absorption of heat by the building by means of solar reflectance, reducing heat transfer to the interior. These technologies are energy-passive, relatively low cost and low maintenance. South Africa contributed to NDC implementation by using innovative energy-efficient solutions to achieve sectoral GHG emission reduction targets.