Economic analysis of the profitability of energy-saving architectural measures for the achievement of the EPB-standard

Energy consumption in the residential and service sector makes up 20% to 40% of the total final consumption in developed countries. Due to e.g. population growth and higher comfort requirements it is highly likely that this energy consumption will continue to increase. As such, energy efficiency in buildings has become a key goal in any energy policy. Europe relies on the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) converted by Flanders into the Energy Performance and Interior Climate (EPB). This study seeks the economically most profitable combination of insulation - facade, roof, floor and glazing - taking into account this Flemish EPB- standard. Therefore a scenario-analysis is conducted using the EPB-software Flanders and a self-designed Excel file for calculating the most important profitability criteria. Based on these criteria the most profitable combination is determined for a maximum E-level of 80. Using a reference point for three types of dwellings studied, the scenario-analysis shows that for the half-open dwelling the insulation of roof and floor becomes more important whereas for the open dwelling it is the insulation of facade and roof. Further on we can conclude that the EPB-policy should distinguish between the dwelling types and should take on more stringent values for the U-level.