Development of an Energy Saving Strategy Model for Retrofitting Existing Buildings: A Korean Case Study

Kwonsik Song, Yonghan Ahn, Joseph Ahn and Nahyun Kwon
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Kwonsik Song: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Yonghan Ahn: Department of Architectural Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, Korea
Joseph Ahn: Division of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hoseo University, Asan 31499, Korea
Nahyun Kwon: Department of Architectural Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, Korea

Energies, 2019, vol. 12, issue 9, 1-17

Abstract: The building sector accounts for approximately 40% of national energy consumption, contributing to the environmental crisis of global warming. Using energy saving measures (e.g., improved thermal insulation, highly energy-efficient electrical and mechanical systems) provides opportunities to reduce energy consumption in existing buildings. Furthermore, if the life cycle cost (i.e., installation, operation and maintenance cost) of the measures is considered with their energy saving potential, it is possible to establish a cost-effective energy retrofit plan. Therefore, this research develops an energy saving strategy model considering its saving potential and life cycle cost of the measures for reducing energy consumption in existing buildings. To test the validity of the proposed model, a case study is carried out on an educational facility in South Korea, in response to its overconsumption of energy. The results demonstrate that in terms of energy saving and life cycle cost, the optimal energy retrofit plan is more cost-effective than the existing plan. Also, the break-even point for the optimal energy retrofit plan is within five years, and then revenue from energy saving continually occurs until 2052. For energy retrofit of existing buildings, using the proposed model would enable building owners to maximize energy savings while minimizing the life cycle cost.

Keywords: energy retrofit; building energy saving; life cycle cost; genetic algorithm (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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