Smart Buildings & Energy
Cleaner grids are masking buildings' stubborn energy use
Deepki's 2026 Index finds energy use across its European building dataset fell far more slowly than emissions — with the UK the most energy-intensive of the six markets it covers.
Deepki published its 2026 Deepki Index on 6 October 2026, based on consumption data from tens of thousands of European buildings that it tracks across six markets, alongside a US comparison.
According to Deepki, average final energy consumption in its European dataset fell from 176 kWh/m² in 2021 to 165 kWh/m² in 2025, a 6% reduction, while carbon emissions fell 17%. The company attributes most of the carbon improvement to cleaner electricity grids rather than better-performing buildings.
Deepki reports the UK as the most energy-intensive of the six countries in its Index, averaging 205 kWh/m² a year across all typologies. The findings describe Deepki's sample, not every building in each market.
Why it matters
If carbon is falling mainly because the grid is decarbonising, portfolio reports can show progress while the buildings themselves stand still. Owners and managing agents should track energy intensity and carbon separately, and judge retrofit and operational programmes on measured consumption — the figure they can actually influence.
Sources
Related stories
AI & Automation
Property AI moves from answering questions to doing the work
MRI Software says its expanded Agora platform now pairs analysis with automated workflows and voice agents for leasing and maintenance. The efficiency claims are the vendor's own.
Digital Transactions
Homebuying's data overhaul moves towards practical testing
CFIT's Open Property Coalition is entering a second phase focused on testing how property data can be shared and relied on across the homebuying chain.
Companies
JLL adds VIPA Digital as data-centre demand reshapes property advice
JLL has bought London-based data-centre consultancy VIPA Digital, folding its specialists into the Work Dynamics business. Terms were not disclosed.