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Renovation of the existing building stock is a vital part of reaching upcoming energy savings and CO2 emission targets. The European Union (EU) continuously publishes directives and guidance to support the transition of existing buildings to nearly-Zero Energy Buildings. A method for calculation of cost-optimal levels for minimum energy performance was introduced in 2012. Its aim is to compare and select different renovation alternatives, based on energy savings and global costs. It has been successfully applied on a package level; however, its complexity has restricted it from being used for comparing renovation alternatives between single components with the same and different functions. This paper presents a methodology for determination of a simplified value linking economical and efficiency parameters on a component level. The value allows for fast overview of cost-benefit of different renovation alternatives between components and systems. It serves a decision-making aid for compilation of renovation packages, which are further evaluated with the cost-optimal approach. The paper also introduces novel refurbishment assessment platform that can assist decision makers with fast compilation of refurbishment packages incorporating key aspects of the presented methodology. The current functionality of the platform is showcased at the end of the paper by a case study.

Reaching environmental targets set by the European Union (EU) requires a constant renovation of the existing building stock to nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) in a cost-optimal manner. Studies show that the renovation rate of the existing building stock is more than two times less than what is necessary to reach the targets. Furthermore, the majority of performed renovations across the EU reach just a small amount of energy savings, whereas NZEB renovations are rarely achieved. This paper proposes a methodology for the evaluation of renovation measures, aiming to provide decision support related to the selection of what to renovate and to what extent. The proposed method is rooted in the well-established cost-optimal methodology, yet it suggests a prestep to package evaluation. This is done by means of a simplified cost-effective parameter (CEP), linking cost, lifetime, and energy savings. The methodology is demonstrated using a case study building in Denmark. The results show that the CEP provides good grounds for the compilation of single actions to packages. Further developments could focus on the sensitivity of the model inputs and integration of additional evaluation parameters to cost, such as environmental, architectural, comfort, risk, etc.

Reaching environmental targets set by the European Union (EU) requires a constant renovation of the existing building stock to nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) in a cost-optimal manner. Studies show that the renovation rate of the existing building stock is more than two times less than what is necessary to reach the targets. Furthermore, the majority of performed renovations across the EU reach just a small amount of energy savings, whereas NZEB renovations are rarely achieved. This paper proposes a methodology for the evaluation of renovation measures, aiming to provide decision support related to the selection of what to renovate and to what extent. The proposed method is rooted in the well-established cost-optimal methodology, yet it suggests a prestep to package evaluation. This is done by means of a simplified cost-effective parameter (CEP), linking cost, lifetime, and energy savings. The methodology is demonstrated using a case study building in Denmark. The results show that the CEP provides good grounds for the compilation of single actions to packages. Further developments could focus on the sensitivity of the model inputs and integration of additional evaluation parameters to cost, such as environmental, architectural, comfort, risk, etc.