The solar modules installed on the exterior walls of Hillstate Lake Songdo Apartments are part of a sustainable energy initiative. (Image courtesy of Hyundai Engineering & Construction)
SEOUL, May 20 (Korea Bizwire) — As South Korea prepares to mandate zero-energy building (ZEB) standards for private apartment complexes by the end of June, major construction firms are racing to upgrade their building technologies to meet new government regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The new rules, which will apply to all private buildings over 1,000 square meters and residential complexes with more than 30 units, will require ZEB Grade 5 certification, equivalent to an energy self-sufficiency rate between 20% and 40%. This marks the first time the ZEB standard will be compulsory for the private housing sector.
Decarbonizing a High-Emission Industry
The construction industry is a significant contributor to emissions, generating large volumes of carbon dioxide throughout the lifecycle of buildings—from raw material production to demolition.
According to the Korea Institute of Construction Industry, 65% of total construction-related carbon emissions occur during a building’s operation, primarily from heating, cooling, and lighting.
To meet the government’s 2050 carbon neutrality target, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has already made ZEB certification mandatory for public housing. The expansion to private housing marks a critical next step, despite resistance from builders citing rising construction costs.
Industry estimates suggest that meeting ZEB Grade 5 standards will increase per-unit construction costs by at least 2.93 million won ($2,100) for an average 84-square-meter apartment. Builders point to expensive renewable energy equipment, unstandardized technology, and inconsistent power generation due to variable weather as major challenges.
ZEB Rules Set to Reshape Korean Housing Sector by June Deadline (Image supported by ChatGPT)
Industry Ramps Up Technological Innovation
Despite concerns, construction companies are investing heavily in passive, active, and renewable energy technologies to stay competitive in a changing regulatory environment. These include high-performance insulation, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and on-site renewable power generation such as solar and geothermal energy.
GS E&C recently unveiled smart LED lighting systems with IoT-based controls that reduce electricity use by up to 50%. Meanwhile, DL E&C is testing new technologies at its R&D center in Daejeon to improve energy independence.
Hyundai E&C’s landmark “Hillstate Lake Songdo” project, completed in 2019, became Korea’s first high-rise residential complex to receive ZEB certification, achieving a 23.4% energy self-sufficiency rate. The complex cut electricity consumption by 51% and heating energy by 43% compared to Incheon’s residential average.
Even geospatial modeling tools using GIS are being employed to optimize the placement of solar panels on building façades based on local climate and terrain.
Consumer Concerns and Benefits
While higher upfront costs could translate into pricier units, some industry insiders say buyers may benefit in the long run from reduced energy bills and improved building efficiency.
“There’s no denying that initial costs will rise,” a construction executive noted. “But as renewable systems pay for themselves over time, the real savings in maintenance and energy will offer long-term value to residents. Satisfaction among residents in certified ZEB complexes is already high.”
As Korea moves to decarbonize its urban infrastructure, the zero-energy standard is set to become a defining feature of future residential development, with public policy and private innovation working in tandem.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
