Digital twins offer scalable energy efficiency for buildings, but require systemic integration for global impact
Original framing: “Buildings consume 30% of global energy – digital twins could be the key to cutting that waste” — The Conversation - Global
Digital twin technology relies on real-time data and predictive modeling to optimize building performance. However, its effectiveness is contingent on the accuracy of input data and the integration of diverse energy systems, which is still under-researched in real-world applications.
Digital twins offer a promising tool for optimizing building energy use, but their impact is limited without addressing the systemic, cultural, and economic barriers to adoption.
Integrating indigenous knowledge, open-source technology, and community participation can enhance both the scalability and equity of these solutions. Historical precedents show that major efficiency gains require policy shifts and cross-sector collaboration, not just technological innovation. By embedding digital twins within broader smart city and energy justice frameworks, we can move toward a more inclusive and sustainable built environment.