Determining the net present global warming potential of energy saving measures in buildings

Abstract

A framework for evaluating the net present global warming potential (GWP) of an energy saving measure is presented, based on an already established LCA methodology. The framework establishes a connection between the emissions from materials, energy, and the expected time horizon of the impact on energy use. The framework is designed to be used as a decision-support tool by practitioners to evaluate the GWPNP impact of a design decision. This has broad relevance as decisions on building standards are often based upon a cost-efficiency approach, e.g. The European Energy performance of buildings directive (EPDB) requirement that building codes be based upon a cost-efficiency approach. And as the requirements are driven by cost there is no inherent balance between the GWP of the energy saved, and the GWP-investment in the measures that impact energy use. The proposed methodology is exemplified by applying it to investigate the optimum insulation thickness for typical wall construction for different locations/climates and time of installation in Norway and comparing these with current industry standards.