Decision support model for energy‐efficient improvement of entire building stocks

Abstract

Purpose

In recent years, steadily rising and ever‐changing energy prices have required the development of sustainable strategies to reduce the energy consumption of buildings. Measures to improve the energy efficiency of detached houses have already been implemented. This new procedure addresses the energy efficient modernization to entire building stocks of public authorities and therefore targets to meet a key niche issue.

Design/methodology/approach

As result of literature research the demand for a strategic approach for energy efficient improvement was pointed out. The model framework refers to four main requirements for a new procedure within a comprehensive view of facilities management (FM), lifecycle orientation, efficient working processes, setting of objectives and monitoring of results. In addition the literature research recorded five main methods and tools which were utilized for the model development.

Findings

The new constructed facility‐energy‐efficiency model (FEE‐model) supports the decision process. The starting point is the selection of the buildings with the highest energy saving potential. The next step is a deeper analysis of the as‐is‐state in comparison with a defined target state. After that improvement areas were identified and finally a recommendation for the implementation is given. The model was tested within practical cases of which a municipal kindergarten is documented as example in this article.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful information on energy efficient improvement of entire building stocks.

Citation

Junghans, A. (2013), "Decision support model for energy‐efficient improvement of entire building stocks", Facilities, Vol. 31 No. 3/4, pp. 173-184. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632771311299449