Energy consumption in the residential and tertiary sectors is especially high in developed countries. There is a great potential for energy savings in these sectors. Energy conservation measures are developed for newly constructed buildings and for buildings under refurbishment. However, to achieve a significant reduction in energy consumption apart from the standard energy-efficiency methods, innovative technologies should be implemented, including renewable energy. Coherency of standard, modern energy efficiency and renewable options becomes necessities. To approach the idea of sustainable buildings, a few developmental steps are needed, regarding energy, water, land and material conservation, together with environmental loading, and the qualities of the indoor and outdoor environments. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.