Integrating Building Information Modelling and Geographic Information System to Achieve Energy Efficiency in Buildings and Urban Areas

Abstract

Climate change and global warming are the biggest challenges facing the world. They are caused by different human activities, especially in urban areas, such as construction, industry and transport. The research explores the possibility of integrating new technological tools in the process of construction and planning phases with the aim of reducing energy consumption and increasing energy efficiency at the level of the building, neighbourhood, and city to achieve sustainable development. The research starts by reviewing the literature that addresses the importance of energy efficiency in sustainable development. It also identifies two new technological tools: building information modelling (BIM) and geographic information system (GIS). Then, it explores their ability to enhance energy efficiency and rationalise consumption to improve the built environment at different city levels. The research also reviews and analyses several case studies that have applied these two technological tools to raise energy efficiency. It aims at identifying the required data (input and output), steps, and procedures necessary to apply these tools at the different city levels. In conclusion, the research proposes guidelines for the integrated use of BIM and GIS to raise energy efficiency in urban areas. It defines the main actions and requirements to perform an energy assessment with input and output data for BIM and GIS. Applying these methodologies, whether in new or existing neighbourhoods, will significantly contribute to energy conservation, reduce harmful emissions, preserve the environment, and achieve sustainable development.