There is an obvious and indisputable need for an increase in the efficiency of energy utilisation inbuildings. Heating, cooling and lighting appliances in buildings account for more than one third of theworlds primary energy demand. In turn, building stock is a major contributor to energy-relatedenvironmental problems.
It is often claimed that energy is consumed; this is not only done in everyday conversation but also inscientific discussions associated with energy and environmental issues. This claim conflicts with thefirst law of thermodynamics stating that the total amount of energy is conserved, even though forms ofenergy may change from one to another.