Screening and analyzing retrofit systems for zero energy renovation and their potential application in Liège, Belgium

Retrofit systems for Zero Energy Renovation comes energy as the most topical subject in the Belgian construction sector. Concepts and solutions for zero energy renovation are a new topic. Since 2006, Belgium has been striving to achieve the European ambitions of fulfilling the Kyoto Protocol by insulating more effectively and reducing CO2 emissions associated with the use of fossil fuel for operational and embodied energy in buildings. In 2011, a Belgian decree mandated the construction of nearly zero and nets zero energy buildings by 2020. Following the German PassivHaus Standard performance requirements the Belgian residential sector is aiming to achieve an energy consumption to less than 15 kWh/m2/year and an onsite renewable energy production up to 60% for every newly construct household. In this, context the study will build on grounded knowledge developed and implemented by the IEA ECBCS Annex 50: Prefabricated Systems for Low Energy Renovation of Residential Buildings. The goal of this research is to screen and select a series of envelope retrofitting solutions. The focused aim is to demonstrate validated envelope prototypes and products of different zero energy, timber frame construction systems and composite components. This will include the comparison of timber retrofit systems with conventional systems. Thus inform and support the decision making of policy makers, municipalities, developers, and architects and building engineers in Belgium.