PROJECTS

Optimisation of building envelope to reach cost optimal nearly zero energy buildings (nZEBs)

PROJECT TYPE
Pathfinder
LOCATION
Copenhagen, Denmark
LEAD PARTNER
Rockwool International
PROJECT MANAGER
Connie Enghus Thiesen, Corporate CSR and Sustainability Director, Rockwool
THEME
Urban Transitions
PARTNERS
Rockwool International
DTU (Technical University of Denmark)

A consequence of previous building regulations, which centred on performance of individual building elements is that focus on interfaces, opening and penetrations has been neglected. The national implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the transformation of the building stock towards nZEBs will require a holistic approach.
The assessment of the overall energy performance of a building is based on a holistic approach when a house is designed to meet nZEB requirements. Considerable resources are and have been invested in developing highly energy-efficient materials and building element solutions (i.e. roofs, walls, windows and doors) to reduce the energy demand. However, solutions optimising performance of interfaces between elements and minimising the negative impact of openings and penetrations in the envelope have not been sufficiently developed.
This project will seek to identify the challenges with the highest impact by exploring the demand-side need in workshop-based activities with participation of contracting companies, engineering and design companies, technical specialists and producers of construction materials. The focus is on generic challenges independent of building type and climate zone to ensure up-scaling potential at a later stage.