Exploring the energy performance of an existing industrial building

Abstract

The present paper explores the energy performance and thermal comfort conditions of an existing industrial building in Durres, Albania. The study analysis the building envelope retrofitting via building performance simulation. Measurements of indoor air temperature in two zones of the building were conducted Two retrofit scenarios were applied to evaluate the potential for improvement. Detailed construction activity, weather information, and occupancy patterns were applied in modelling the facility. In addition, detailed interior loads were considered including the machines used, occupancy and lighting operation patterns. The results provide an objective assessment of the actual energy performance and indoor environmental performance of the selected industrial building. The scenarios incorporate the use of thermal insulation of the walls and the roof, as well as modifying the roof design while increasing the ventilation regime during the summer period. The results suggest that improvements and insulations in building fabrics and ventilation regime could reduce the annual energy consumption up to 19 and reduce the monthly summer temperature up to 1.5 °C.