From theory to practice: comparison between traditional and sustainable business models in the real estate sector

Over the last twenty years, European policies to reduce emissions in the building sector have encouraged the introduction of sustainable business models, including Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) and its Italian evolution, Servizio Energia Plus (Energy Plus Service). The latter differs from the traditional EPC model in the ESCo's ability not only to carry out efficiency measures but also to supply energy for a period of ten years after the measure, ensuring integrated management and reducing risk for the customer. This study focuses on the Energy Plus Service and analyzes its specific characteristics and economic benefits to highlight its role in promoting sustainability in the Italian building landscape. The research is based on the application of two business models - a traditional and the Energy Plus Service - to a renovation project of an Italian case study. This approach makes it possible to compare a traditional business model with Energy Plus Service, highlighting the differences in terms of energy efficiency, economic sustainability, and risk management. The expected results should show that the Energy Plus Service model offers more effective solutions to climate and energy efficiency challenges than the traditional model and is better adapted to the economic and social specificities of the Italian context. This comparison is intended to show the concrete benefits resulting from the introduction of sustainable business models in the construction sector