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Improving Energy Efficiency of School Buildings: A Case Study of Thermal Insulation and Window Replacement Using Cost-Benefit Analysis and Energy Simulations

Author

Listed:
  • Dušan Ranđelović

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia)

  • Vladan Jovanović

    (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia)

  • Marko Ignjatović

    (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia)

  • Janusz Marchwiński

    (Faculty of Architecture, University of Technology and Arts in Warsaw, 00-792 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Ołeksij Kopyłow

    (Instytut Techniki Budowlanej (Building Research Institute), 00-611 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Vuk Milošević

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia)

Abstract

This study demonstrates the benefits of comprehensive school building (SB) energy efficiency (EE) improvements through building envelope renovations, lighting upgrades, and changes to cleaner heat sources. The parametric study in the building energy simulation software was used to check the application of various interventions on the energy consumption of existing SBs while reducing CO 2 emissions with the most profitable return on investment ( ROI ). The energy savings from window replacements did not correspond with expectations. However, other measures such as the wall, roof insulation, and lighting modernization improved EE by up to 152 kWh/m 2 and 41 kg/m 2 CO 2 /m 2 annually. The study also points to a significant trade-off between district heating (which reduces CO 2 but has a slower ROI ) and other heating solutions. The results suggest that climate-specific insulation thickness and glazing type needs are required, and optimal insulation strategies are shown to improve EE by 48–56% and CO 2 reductions of 45–56%. Lighting replacement and biogas boiler use were both impactful. The findings support the importance of sustainable practices, which should stimulate educational awareness and environmental responsibility. This research presents actionable insights for EE and sustainable development from within educational facilities.

Suggested Citation

  • Dušan Ranđelović & Vladan Jovanović & Marko Ignjatović & Janusz Marchwiński & Ołeksij Kopyłow & Vuk Milošević, 2024. "Improving Energy Efficiency of School Buildings: A Case Study of Thermal Insulation and Window Replacement Using Cost-Benefit Analysis and Energy Simulations," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(23), pages 1-31, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:23:p:6176-:d:1538928
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    References listed on IDEAS

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