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Bridging the Gap to Decarbonization: Evaluating Energy Renovation Performance and Compliance

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  • Gašper Stegnar

    (Energy Efficiency Centre, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia)

Abstract

Achieving a decarbonized built environment by 2050 requires significant advancements in building renovation strategies, with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and emissions reduction. This study examined the compliance of buildings renovated between 2015 and 2022 with national energy performance regulations. While many buildings have undergone improvements, a substantial portion still fail to meet the stricter, current requirements, particularly in terms of window and floor insulation, highlighting the need for further retrofit measures. Comparing static and dynamic simulation models reveals that static models frequently overestimate energy savings, leading to misaligned investment decisions. Dynamic simulations, by incorporating real-time climate interactions and transient thermal behaviors, provide a more accurate assessment of energy demand and efficiency improvements. A financial analysis indicates that static models often predict unrealistically short payback periods, potentially resulting in suboptimal renovation investments. To meet decarbonization goals, future strategies must integrate advanced simulation methodologies, strengthen regulatory oversight, and enhance financial incentives for comprehensive energy renovations. A data-driven approach is essential to ensure that building retrofits achieve meaningful energy savings and contribute to climate neutrality. Strengthening compliance frameworks and promoting standardized renovation practices will be key to bridging the gap between expected and actual performance, ensuring a sustainable and resilient built environment.

Suggested Citation

  • Gašper Stegnar, 2025. "Bridging the Gap to Decarbonization: Evaluating Energy Renovation Performance and Compliance," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-22, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:5:p:1146-:d:1600083
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Marjana Šijanec Zavrl & Gašper Stegnar & Andraž Rakušček & Henrik Gjerkeš, 2016. "A Bottom-Up Building Stock Model for Tracking Regional Energy Targets—A Case Study of Kočevje," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 8(10), pages 1-16, October.
    2. Kotarela, Faidra & Kyritsis, Anastasios & Agathokleous, Rafaela & Papanikolaou, Nick, 2023. "On the exploitation of dynamic simulations for the design of buildings energy systems," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 271(C).
    3. Calise, F. & Cappiello, F.L. & Cimmino, L. & Vicidomini, M., 2024. "Semi-stationary and dynamic simulation models: A critical comparison of the energy and economic savings for the energy refurbishment of buildings," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 300(C).
    4. Stegnar, Gašper & Staničić, D. & Česen, M. & Čižman, J. & Pestotnik, S. & Prestor, J. & Urbančič, A. & Merše, S., 2019. "A framework for assessing the technical and economic potential of shallow geothermal energy in individual and district heating systems: A case study of Slovenia," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 180(C), pages 405-420.
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