A multi-aspect approach to energy retrofitting under global warming: A case of a multi-apartment building in Montenegro

Abstract

Global warming will seriously affect buildings, and the Montenegrin building stock is no exception. Since the country is one of the most inefficient energy users in Europe, improving the energy efficiency of buildings is essential. Therefore, the study implemented a novel multi-aspect approach to energy retrofitting, linking building thermal performance, occupant interaction and climate change. A representative existing multi-apartment building in Podgorica was selected, and a survey among occupants was conducted to identify their satisfaction with indoor thermal comfort and to evaluate the acceptability of the proposed energy retrofit measures. Next, the thermal performance of the building was simulated under current and future climate conditions. Finally, a comprehensive parametric analysis was performed by applying different retrofit scenarios. The selected retrofit measures were evaluated based on their impact on energy efficiency and occupant acceptability. The results showed that the most impactful retrofit measure would be thermally insulating the building envelope, followed by a lower shading set-point and natural ventilation cooling. Applying the best retrofit combinations would reduce the total energy demand by 75% under the current climate and by 66% and 59% at the end of the 21st century under the RCP4.5 or RCP8.5 scenarios, respectively. However, the occupant survey results disclosed that beyond thermally insulating the building, occupants have limited awareness about the potential of energy retrofit actions, while summer thermal discomfort is the dominant issue. Therefore, building energy retrofit and climate adaptability actions should also address occupant views.