Improving the Energy Performance and Economic Benefits of Aged Residential Buildings by Retrofitting in Hot–Humid Regions of China

Xiaolin Yang, Zhuoxi Chen, Yukai Zou () and Fengdeng Wan ()
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Xiaolin Yang: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Zhuoxi Chen: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Yukai Zou: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Fengdeng Wan: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 13, 1-21

Abstract: The existing building stock faces the challenge of low energy efficiency and requires renovation and upgrading to meet society′s goals of carbon reduction and sustainable development. This study presents an optimization framework utilizing genetic algorithms to develop robust retrofit plans that balance the need for improved energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness considerations for householders, and uncertainties regarding climate conditions. A case study of an aged residential building in a hot and humid region of China is used to demonstrate the proposed method. The optimization results show a potential energy demand reduction of 81.5%. However, due to the relatively long time required to realize economic benefits from high investments, short-term optimization tends to favor solutions with high energy demand and low primary costs. To effectively reduce carbon emissions, it is recommended to consider the long-term economic benefits of retrofits and prioritize solutions with high energy efficiency. However, it is important to acknowledge that the expensive nature of retrofit investments may pose barriers to residents. Society should provide adequate support and guidance to facilitate residential renovation efforts.

Keywords: multi-objective optimization; residential building retrofit; energy demand; climate uncertainty; hot and humid area (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: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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