In our previous blog, we discussed whether sustainable and affordable construction are compatible. Our conclusion is that this entails considerable challenges. Why this is the case and what role we can play in this is explained in this blog.

Price fluctuations 

As a construction or real estate organisation, can you still keep an overview when it comes to sustainable construction? An example: if you want to install an energy-efficient system (such as a heat pump), this requires significant investments that cannot be recouped in the short term. Or can you? We recently read an article* in Business Insider Netherlands that the prices of hybrid heat pumps have fallen significantly, by approximately 850 euros in the past year. This is because the mandatory purchase of hybrid heat pumps (which was planned from 2026) has been scrapped by the new government. Suppliers lowered the prices to get rid of their large stocks, which had been built up in anticipation of the obligation.

Is it really a cheaper alternative?

With the heat pump, gas consumption drops to zero. However, these systems entail much higher electricity costs. So you will first have to invest a lot in insulation: heat pumps in combination with draughty spaces are not recommended. The combination of a heat pump and solar panels is ideal to keep the costs of electricity consumption under control.

Unfamiliarity with subsidies

Sustainable construction can also be challenging if there is a lack of knowledge about what is possible in the field of subsidies. Recently, attention has been paid to new regulations and subsidies aimed at making social real estate, such as schools, sports facilities and healthcare institutions, more sustainable. One of the most important programs is the Subsidy Scheme for Sustainable Social Real Estate (DUMAVA). This scheme offers subsidies for owners of social real estate to make their buildings more sustainable. This is in line with the objectives of the Climate Agreement, in which the Netherlands aims for a CO2 reduction of 49% in 2030 compared to 1990.

Unclear agreements 

The costs for sustainable construction can also be exceeded if there are unclear agreements with subcontractors. These are often also companies with which there is no long-term relationship. What role does HB Real Estate play? First of all, we employ consultants who come from the construction and real estate world themselves and are happy to share their experiences and tips in the field of sustainable construction with you. In addition, it is important that you can determine your required budget at an early stage and recalibrate it (higher/lower) when necessary. With calculation models, we support developers in calculating the total expenditure and the cash flow up to and including the complete project administration, so that they can monitor exactly whether projects remain within the budget and the forecast. If you would like more information or to know what HB Real Estate can do for you, please contact us for a demo.

*Source used: Business Insider Nederland.