Analysis of the energy performance strategies in a historical building used as a music school

Abstract

Energy consumption in public education buildings depends on use and occupancy. To improve energy performance, energy audits are essential to identify specific solutions for each building. In this study, we conducted an energy audit of a historical building used as a public education centre. We collected gas and electricity bills and recorded indoor temperatures for over a year to determine heating and cooling set points and the schedules. Our analysis showed that 47.42% of the electricity bills were unused. To reduce energy demand and improve thermal comfort, we both developed and validated a Building Energy Modelling (BEM) approach using TRNSYS18 and weather data during year 2021. The BEM model allowed us to propose efficient measures to meet the Standard Passive requirements. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of energy audits and BEM modelling in reducing energy consumption in public education buildings. © 2023 The Authors