Since 2021, all new buildings or parts of buildings in the European Union must meet the A++ energy efficiency class, which incorporates highly airtight structures and high-quality thermal insulation. While these features are beneficial for energy savings and environmental concerns, they can create barriers for radio waves, thereby reducing mobile phone signal strength within buildings. Telecommunications expert Arūnas Mickevičius emphasizes that mobile connectivity is not solely the responsibility of service providers but also heavily influenced by building designs.

The trend of constructing highly insulated buildings is becoming prevalent; however, this poses a challenge for mobile network reliability. As pointed out by Mr. Mickevičius, even in brand-new, modern buildings, mobile signals can weaken in specific areas. For instance, communication may be interrupted in elevators, and mobile phones may fail to work in underground parking facilities, which complicates connectivity for users. This situation raises concerns for architects and builders to focus not only on energy efficiency but also on integrating solutions that facilitate mobile signal penetration.

Consequently, it highlights the need for a collaborative approach among builders, architects, and telecommunications providers to design structures that meet energy regulations while ensuring users maintain good mobile connectivity. As the emphasis on sustainability continues to grow, finding a balance between energy efficiency and functional telecommunications will be essential for future building projects in the European Union.