Energy retrofitting by using building information modelling-based energy model

Purpose – In 2022, buildings were responsible for 30% of the world's final energy demand and contributed to 26% of global greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve a high level of energy efficiency, it is imperative to consider energy retrofitting of existing buildings due to it forms most of the built environment. This research aims to propose an ideal strategy of energy retrofit measures to increase energy efficiency on one of existing public buildings by using Building Information Modelling (BIM)-based energy model. Design/methodology/approach – This research was conducted through three phases. The first phase was data acquisition where the current condition of the existing building was determined. The second phase was modelling process. The BIM-based energy model was created based on the building as-built condition. The third phase was strategies simulation which different strategies of energy retrofit measures were simulated to find the ideal strategy for the existing building. Findings – Research found out that the Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) system of existing buildings has the greatest potential to increase energy efficiency. The ideal strategy to implement found out to be strategy which replacing the HVAC systems to high-efficiency Variable Air Volume systems and reduce the Light Power Density by 60% through upgrading the lighting system. Originality/value – By integrating BIM with energy analysis, the post-retrofit energy consumption of different strategies can be compared effectively, and robust decision-making frameworks can be developed, thus enhancing building sustainability and advancing towards net-zero carbon objectives.