Improving Energy Efficiency of School Buildings: A Case Study of Thermal Insulation and Window Replacement Using Cost-Benefit Analysis and Energy Simulations

Dušan Ranđelović (), Vladan Jovanović, Marko Ignjatović, Janusz Marchwiński, Ołeksij Kopyłow and Vuk Milošević
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Dušan Ranđelović: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
Vladan Jovanović: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
Marko Ignjatović: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia
Janusz Marchwiński: Faculty of Architecture, University of Technology and Arts in Warsaw, 00-792 Warsaw, Poland
Ołeksij Kopyłow: Instytut Techniki Budowlanej (Building Research Institute), 00-611 Warsaw, Poland
Vuk Milošević: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 23, 1-31

Abstract: This study demonstrates the benefits of comprehensive school building (SB) energy efficiency (EE) improvements through building envelope renovations, lighting upgrades, and changes to cleaner heat sources. The parametric study in the building energy simulation software was used to check the application of various interventions on the energy consumption of existing SBs while reducing CO 2 emissions with the most profitable return on investment ( ROI ). The energy savings from window replacements did not correspond with expectations. However, other measures such as the wall, roof insulation, and lighting modernization improved EE by up to 152 kWh/m 2 and 41 kg/m 2 CO 2 /m 2 annually. The study also points to a significant trade-off between district heating (which reduces CO 2 but has a slower ROI ) and other heating solutions. The results suggest that climate-specific insulation thickness and glazing type needs are required, and optimal insulation strategies are shown to improve EE by 48–56% and CO 2 reductions of 45–56%. Lighting replacement and biogas boiler use were both impactful. The findings support the importance of sustainable practices, which should stimulate educational awareness and environmental responsibility. This research presents actionable insights for EE and sustainable development from within educational facilities.

Keywords: energy efficiency; thermal insulation; window replacement; cost-benefit analysis; energy simulations (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: 2024
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