Retrofit Analysis of City-Scale Residential Buildings in the Hot Summer and Cold Winter Climate Zone

Yanfei Ji, Guangchen Li, Fanghan Su, Yixing Chen () and Rongpeng Zhang ()
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Yanfei Ji: College of Civil Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
Guangchen Li: College of Civil Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
Fanghan Su: College of Civil Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
Yixing Chen: College of Civil Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
Rongpeng Zhang: Key Laboratory of Building Safety and Energy Efficiency of Ministry of Education, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 17, 1-19

Abstract: The rising energy consumption in residential buildings within the hot summer and cold winter (HSCW) climate zone, driven by occupants’ pursuit of improved thermal comfort, necessitates effective energy conservation measures. This study established urban building energy models for 32,145 residential buildings in Changsha City, China, and conducted a comprehensive retrofit analysis of seven energy conservation measures (ECMs). Additionally, the study assessed the impact of residents’ conscious energy-saving behaviors concerning air conditioner (AC) control. The research commenced by creating six baseline models representative of the diverse building stock. Identifying seven commonly used ECMs, the study examined the potential of each measure for enhancing energy efficiency. To facilitate the analysis, a dedicated toolkit, AutoBPS-Retrofit, was developed to efficiently modify the baseline model for each ECM. Furthermore, the investigation delved into the investment cost of implementing the ECMs and evaluated their simple payback year (PBP) and net present value (NPV). The results demonstrate that tailored retrofit plans are essential when addressing envelope improvements, varying according to building types and ages. Retrofits targeting lighting systems offer both promising energy savings and favorable economic viability, albeit subject to residents’ preferences. Alternatively, upgrading the AC systems emerges as the most energy-efficient approach, yet the economic assessment raises concerns. The study’s findings offer practical insights for governments seeking to establish effective carbon reduction goals and policies. Moreover, the research can assist energy-saving institutions, real-estate companies, and stakeholders involved in renovation projects by offering guidance in making informed decisions to enhance energy efficiency in city-scale residential buildings.

Keywords: residential buildings; building simulation; energy conservation measures; city-scale modeling; retrofit analysis (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 (3)

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