A model for the economic evaluation of energetic requalification projects in buildings. A real case application

Abstract

The study is part of the current debate on the selection of cost-effective interventions to ensure the energy efficiency of buildings. It is generally considered a major issue for the conscious exploitation of environmental resources and, in particular, the economic sustainability of the management processes of buildings. In accordance with the provisions of the relevant legislation, a model for the quantification of energy audits and the verification of the cost effectiveness of energetic requalification projects in buildings is proposed. There is also the aim to provide professionals, agencies and operators within the sector a standardised methodology for the selection of useful and practicable steps for the reliable estimation of the relevant costs and revenues. The model is structured on a logical sequence of operational steps that range from the simulation of the thermodynamic behaviour of the building up to the implementation of a Cost-Benefit Analysis, a technique traditionally used to express judgements of convenience of the implementation of investments. The reliability of the model is tested through the application to a real case. © 2014 Springer International Publishing.