Towards energy sufficient buildings and thermal comfort in the built environment

Abstract

In order to ensure the sustainable development of cities, the existing building stock has to be transformed to stay relevant to the changing needs of urban dwellers and to reduce the economic and environmental impacts of cities on the planet. Thus, innovating and developing a strategy that prepares the built environment for 2050 is of significant importance. On the other hand, a few researchers explored the problem of energy performance gap in retrofitted buildings due to a lack of knowledge in energy consumption and a proper way to access the data. Therefore, this study aims to deepen knowledge on the relationship and interaction between the end-user and building’s energy performance, thereby contributing to the academic discussion on the energy performance paradox of retrofitted buildings. With the help of various smart energy tools, it is possible to acquire better insight and to regulate the energy performance of the building with respect to thermal comfort and occupant well-being. This study presents the importance of energy sufficiency through passive design and BMS implementation as a path towards those goals by answering the following main research question ‘How to integrate the Building Management Systems (BMS) requirements to optimize the energy performance and user satisfaction in retrofitted residential buildings?’ Through a case study, the outcome of this master thesis is achieved: A strategic approach towards energy sufficient building design that focusses on adding value to the environment, economy and end-users. By promoting the right ecological solutions and having a conscious user behaviour, energy can be consumed efficiently whereas temperatures are kept at a very comfortable level. The MOR Team’s proposal for the Rotterdam Europoint Complex is an example of self-sufficient high-rise tower relying solely on renewable energy: High performance, Low energy.