Energy-efficient renovations can decarbonise buildings

(CONNECT) According to a press release, ewz has published the white paper “Energy-Efficient Renovation as an Opportunity.” In the paper, the City of Zurich's energy provider demonstrates how building renovations can offer significant potential for reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions. The white paper states that medium- and large-sized property owners, in particular, have a responsibility to make their existing buildings ready for the future. It would also be financially worthwhile for them.

This white paper is intended as a guide for property owners on the extent to which energy-efficient renovations are environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible. The premise highlights the need for renovation if Switzerland's climate goals are to be met: 80 percent of the approximately 1.8 million residential buildings do not meet current thermal insulation and energy efficiency requirements. The paper outlines the legal framework and funding opportunities, as well as a framework for action regarding energy-efficiency retrofits.

As a first step, a building analysis will be conducted to assess market potential, the condition of the building, and its energy efficiency. Based on this, the following renovation strategies are chosen: value preservation for buildings with low market potential and poor structural condition; partial renovation for buildings with good structural condition; and comprehensive renovation for buildings that also have good market potential. In the next steps, the renovation measures must be determined, taking into account potential investments and ensuring cost-effectiveness. It appears that financial risks can be mitigated through regular property renovations.

The white paper provides guidance on planning and implementing renovation measures, as well as on possible financing options. In this way, involving the energy service provider early on can improve energy efficiency in the facility and reduce the property's life-cycle costs. Banks can offer loans at reduced interest rates.

Using the example of the Im Tiergarten housing complex in Zurich, this document shows how a renovation project can be successfully carried out without evicting the more than 1,000 tenants. The heat now comes from a local heating network operated by ewz, which is heated by a data center. A 60-year-old residential and commercial building on Oberwilerstrasse in Basel was also renovated while it remained occupied. Here, the building was insulated with rock wool and fitted with a solar facade.

The document can be requested through the ewz website. ce/ww