Cost effectiveness of energy performance improvements in Estonian brick apartment buildings

Abstract

Abstract The paper discusses energy renovation measures for brick apartment buildings in Estonia (cold climate). The study analyses the energy usage of brick apartment buildings and simulations for four reference building types selected to represent the brick apartment building stock. Our results show that renovation of old apartment buildings enables the same energy performance requirements as in new apartment buildings to be achieved. Therefore, focus should be on deep renovation of apartment buildings. It is particularly relevant in the context of the EU climate and energy targets for 2020 target. Deep renovation projects will result in low level energy usage in a building but at the same time substantial financial support packages are required to motivate apartment owners to take an extra step.