Ardron, T G and Allwood, J M (2025) Exploring time and cost optimization in energy retrofit programmes of traditionally constructed, owner-occupied UK dwellings. Building Research & Information, 53(3), pp. 397-415. ISSN 0961-3218
Abstract
Despite a step change in the social-rented sector in recent years, retrofitting homes in the owner-occupied sector is still slow and expensive. This applies particularly to the case of solid wall (and unfillable cavity wall) homes where staple energy efficiency measures cannot be applied easily. Drawing on interviews with owner occupiers of traditionally constructed dwellings who have completed or are in the process of retrofit projects, this paper explores the role of time and cost within one-off energy retrofit programmes. It is observed that a mix of one-go and long-term projects of varying depths are being completed. Projects completed in one go appear most likely to achieve a deep retrofit required for meeting emissions reduction targets, yet the associated costs remain significant and beyond affordability for most households. Opportunities for time and cost savings are identified in the combination of renovation and retrofit works and the use of government subsidies, however, the correct sequencing of these measures is essential to avoid the occurrence of shallow retrofits or investment lock-ins.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | cost; energy; housing; refurbishment; retrofit; time |
| Index terms: | subsidy, owner, household, renovation, cost saving, interview, step-change, cost optimization, programme, drawing, energy efficiency measure, housing, retrofitting, affordability |
| Subjects: | sociology, project controls, economics, renovation and retrofit, energy systems, technical documentation, data collection methods, demography, economic analysis, innovation studies, construction type |
| Topics: | Engineering Principles, Sustainability, Design Practice, Urban Studies, Time Control, Cost Management, Business Strategy, Research Practice, Stakeholder Management, Construction Technology |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCE |
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