Deep Energy Retrofit

Deep Energy Retrofit

Author: Alexander Zhivov

Publisher: Springer Nature

Published: 2020-07-13

Total Pages: 588

ISBN-13: 3030306798

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This book provides detailed information on how to set up Deep Energy Retrofits (DERs) in public buildings, and shares in-depth insights into the current status of the major technologies, strategies and best practice examples of how to cost-effectively combine them. Case studies from the U.S.A. and Europe show that that Deep Energy Retrofit can be achieved with a limited core technologies bundle readily available on the market. Characteristics of some of these core technology measures depend on the technologies available on an individual nation’s market, on the minimum requirements of national standards, and on economics (as determined by a life cycle cost analysis). Also, requirements to building envelope-related technologies (e.g., insulation levels, windows, vapor and water barriers, and requirements for building airtightness) depend on specific climate conditions. This Guide provides best practice examples of how to apply these technologies in different construction situations. High levels of energy use reduction using core technology bundles along with improvements in indoor climate and thermal comfort can be only achieved when a Deep Energy Retrofit adopts a quality assurance process. In addition to design, construction, commissioning, and post-occupancy phases of the quality assurance process, the Guide emphasizes the importance of clearly and concisely formulating and documenting the Owner’s goals, expectations, and requirements for the renovated building during development of the statement of work. Another important component of the quality assurance process is a procurement phase, during which bidders’ qualifications, their understanding of the scope of work and its requirements, and their previous experience are analyzed. The building sector holds the potential for tremendous improvements in terms of energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, and energy retrofits to the existing building stock represent a significant opportunity in the transition to a low-carbon future. Moreover, investing in highly efficient building materials and systems can replace long-term energy imports, contribute to cost cutting, and create a wealth of new jobs. Yet, while the technologies needed in order to improve energy efficiency are readily available, significant progress has not yet been made, and “best practices” for implementing building technologies and renewable energy sources are still relegated to small “niche” applications. Offering essential information on Deep Energy Retrofits, the book offers a valuable asset for architects, public authorities, project developers, and engineers alike.


Energy Efficiency and Historic Buildings

Energy Efficiency and Historic Buildings

Author: David Pickles

Publisher:

Published: 2016-04-29

Total Pages: 26

ISBN-13: 9781848024427

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This guidance note provides advice on the principles, risks, materials and methods for insulating solid masonry walls. Traditional solid wall construction is often the most difficult and in many cases the least cost effective part of a building to insulate. However, adding insulation to solid walls can lead to a significant reduction in heat loss but thought and care is needed to make sure the works are appropriate, effective and do not cause long-term problems. Whether applied externally or internally, this type of work can have a significant impact on the appearance of the building. Wall insulation will also alter the technical performance of the solid wall and can either exacerbate existing moisture-related problems or create new ones. In some cases the technical risks of adding insulation to solid walls will be too great and alternative ways of providing a more cost effective long-term solution to improving energy efficiency may be more appropriate. External insulation can be particularly difficult to incorporate into some older buildings as costly ancillary adaptations such as changes to the eaves and verges of roofs, drainage pipework, and window and door reveals are often required. As a consequence such works needs a high degree of quality control. For listed buildings any form of wall insulation is likely to require consent. For many buildings, including those in conservation areas and national parks, external wall insulation will usually require planning permission. This guidance forms one of a series of thirteen guidance notes covering the thermal upgrading of building elements such as roofs, walls and floors.