Comparative Analysis of Retrofitting Strategies: Northeast America's and Northern Italy's Regional Standards and Energy Goals

Ford, Franklin; King, Seton

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Comparative Analysis of Retrofitting Strategies: Northeast America's and Northern Italy's Regional Standards and Energy Goals

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This study addresses the modern issue of climate change by focusing on the building sector's significant energy consumption, which accounts for roughly one-third of global energy use. With existing buildings identified as major contributors to Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and energy waste, this research aims to explore energy retrofitting as a strategy for sustainability. By comparing retrofitting strategies within Northeast America and Northern Italy, specifically Worcester, U.S., and Lecco, Italy, this paper investigates regional standards and energy goals through a detailed analysis of two academic buildings: Stratton Hall (WPI) and Building 12 (Polimi-Lecco). The goals include designing, simulating, and comparing retrofitting solutions to meet and exceed code requirements and achieve Net Zero energy consumption. This study highlights Italy's successful retrofitting experiences to provide insight for the U.S. and potentially other countries towards more effective and worldwide applicable retrofitting strategies. The project outlines a methodology for developing accurate models of the buildings' current energy efficiency and architectural properties, designing retrofitting solutions, and synthesizing findings to propose recommendations for improving energy codes and retrofitting practices. Through this approach, the research seeks to contribute to the development of sustainable practices in the building sector, offering a path towards reduced energy consumption and a more sustainable future.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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