Evaluation of Energy Efficiency in Retrofitting Residential Buildings with Large-Panel Structures

Abstract

Modular blocks of flats built with large prefabricated panels have become widespread in most of central and East-European countries particularly in the 80es, populating large-scale neighbourhoods. In Romania are representing about 37% of the total fund of apartment blocks, being present in most of the cities. The high percentage of thermal bridges and reduced design thermal resistance of the envelope make these buildings a priority in thermal retrofitting. Using up-to-date calculation methods, the paper presents a thorough analysis of the energy performance of large-panel residential buildings (apartment blocks) before and after renovation. The conclusions are focused on the practical measures to be undertaken for bringing the energy efficiency after retrofitting at the highest possible degree, thus meeting the requirements of the EU legislation and the targets set in the field of energy performance and reduction of CO2 emissions.