Life-Cycle Cost Minimization Considering Retrofits in Multi-Family Residences

• When a building is to be renovated it is important to implement the optimal retrofit combination. If this strategy is neglected it might not be profitable to change the building in order to improve it as an energy system. This paper deals with energy retrofits and how the strategy can be optimized considering one specific building. The best solution is found when the life-cycle cost for the building is minimal, and building envelope, ventilation and heating system retrofits are combined. In order to solve the problem, a mathematical model, OPtimal Energy Retrofit Advisory (OPERA), has been developed. Energy balance calculations are used in which the free energy from solar radiation and from appliances is taken into proper account. The interaction between different retrofits is emphasized. Provided that the optimal solution is implemented, the retrofits in the combination will have a minor interaction which, for most cases, could be neglected. This will also imply that the order of implementation is of no, or minor, importance. A case study for a real building sited in Malmö, Sweden, and a sensitivity analysis for some critical input parameters are discussed.

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