An energy audit for building renovation, also referred to as a building energy audit, involves carrying out assessments that result in a report setting out recommendations for the building’s energy renovation. The main objective of such a renovation is to reduce the energy used for heating, ventilation and domestic hot water production. This article provides a detailed overview of the methodology, measurement techniques and tools used during an energy audit for building renovation.
Detailed building assessment
The first stage of the audit is a detailed survey of the building. This involves collecting data on the building’s construction, including architectural plans, material specifications and the existing heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. As part of a building energy audit, the assessment takes account of building-specific factors such as location, size, form, construction materials, type of insulation and any defects resulting from years of use. The building’s intended use and the type of activity carried out in it are also important. The purpose of an energy audit for building renovation is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the building and identify upgrade opportunities that can deliver financial and environmental benefits.
The audit report may include guidance on necessary repairs as well as recommendations for implementing modern systems and equipment. It also provides information on financing options, such as grants for energy-efficiency improvements.
Energy modelling and computer simulations
A detailed energy model of the building is developed from the collected data. Advanced dynamic simulation software is used for this purpose. The model makes it possible to simulate the building’s actual energy performance under different operating and climatic conditions.
The energy model is used to develop different energy-renovation scenarios. The analysis assesses the energy performance of proposed measures such as upgrading thermal insulation, replacing HVAC systems, installing renewable energy systems (RES) and implementing intelligent building energy management systems (BEMS). Each scenario is assessed in terms of energy-use reduction, capital expenditure and simple payback period (SPB).
Economic and environmental assessment
A key part of the audit is a cost–benefit analysis (CBA) of the proposed energy-renovation measures. The analysis considers both direct capital costs and benefits in the form of energy savings and reduced greenhouse-gas emissions. This makes it possible to identify the modernisation measures that are most effective from both economic and environmental perspectives.
An energy audit for building renovation goes beyond a technical and economic analysis. Assessing the environmental impact of the proposed measures is also an important element. This includes evaluating reductions in CO2 emissions and other air pollutants. Energy-renovation measures, such as the use of renewable energy sources, help reduce the building’s carbon footprint, which is particularly important in the context of global efforts towards sustainable development.
