Building performance indicators and IEQ assessment procedure for the next generation of EPC-s

Abstract

In the current implementation of EPC-s, the assessment focus is purely on the energy consumption data. For the next generation of EPC-s, new performance indicators are proposed to address relevant building performance aspects, such as sustainability, productivity and market value. These indicators would enable evidence-based decision-making processes and facilitate the delivery of renovation triggers. Within the EPC framework, the problem is not the availability of such performance indicators, but the assessment effort required. Only easily available data can justifiably be introduced to bulk EPC-s, either as direct complementary input or as a performance indicator. Availability of such data was analysed from case studies that included EPC-s from 11 EU member states, mainly non-residential buildings. Analysed data included relevant HVAC information such as ventilation air flows, heating and cooling set-points and installed power, but also output data, such as EPC classes, net and primary energy need and GHG emissions. Based on our findings, we outlined two different development paths - one for existing buildings and one for new buildings and major renovations. Two categories of complementary indicators to energy are proposed – IEQ and power indicators.

Advancing Building Assessment Tools: Achieving Sustainable Development Goals through the Fusion of Internet of Things Occupant-Centric Principles and Sustainable Practices

“…The good news is that there is a need for change, and this change is coming [117]. The next generation of BA tools needs to be more adaptable and responsive [118]. This means embracing real-time data, factoring in climate change, and placing the needs of the people who use the building at the forefront [119].…”

<p>Preface</p>

“…Census data or building surveys can be used to collect relevant information to characterise the building stock at the country level (Mata et al 2014). In recent years, building energy certificates and other geographical information systems have enriched existing databases and increased data accuracy (Võsa et al 2021). Moreover, some European and national projects have compiled available information for a country or group of countries or new methodologies to certify energy rating for buildings such as Active Building Research Programme (2013); ePANACEA (2020); Episcope EU (2013); U-CERT (2019).…”