Prioritizing Efficiency : Evaluating the Impact of Energy-Saving Measures in Commercial Buildings

Sammanfattning: This study systematically categorizes energy efficiency measures in buildings and evaluates their effectiveness in terms of energy savings, CO2e emissions reduction, and cost-effectiveness. It also explores the potential correlations between measure effectiveness and various building characteristics. The analysis is based on 363 individual life-cycle cost assessments (LCCAs) for measures proposed for 65 different buildings owned by the real estate company Vasakronan. The identified measure categories include Energy Supply Systems, HVAC Systems, Lighting, Building Envelope, Renewable Electricity Generation, Transportation Systems, and Water Systems. The results highlight that Energy Supply Systems measures, particularly heat pump installations, offer the greatest potential for energy savings, CO2e emissions reduction, lowest life-cycle costs, and shorter payback periods. HVAC Systems improvements also demonstrate significant energy and emission savings, although with longer payback periods. Building Envelope measures exhibit substantial energy-saving potential, but they achieve lower economic savings. Water Systems, Transportation Systems, Lighting, and Renewable Electricity Generation categories show lower energy-saving potential and economic savings compared to Energy Supply Systems and HVAC Systems. Furthermore, the correlation analysis highlights the need for tailored approaches considering specific building characteristics. The study’s outcomes contribute to informed decision-making for optimizing energy efficiency in buildings and promoting sustainable practices in the real estatesector.