REVIEW OF THE EUROPEAN DWELLING STOCK AND ITS POTENTIAL FOR RETROFIT INTERVENTIONS USING SOLAR-ASSISTED HEATING AND COOLING

Abstract

This study provides a characterization of the existing European stock of residential buildings, with a specific focus on their energy performance. Eight countries with different characteristics and climates have been selected as a representative sample. After identifying relevant parameters, data has been compiled from several sources, including national statistical bodies and European datasets from official and unofficial bodies, as well as previous research projects. Based on those projects as initial source of information, the study is complemented with energy efficiency related regulations as well as with external climate data. The collected information has been subject to a critical review and analysed to identify insights and trends related to the energy performance of European dwellings. The information gathered is intended to provide a general view about the current status for each of the assessed countries and by extension a global picture of the European stock. The outcomes of this study will constitute a realistic baseline scenario for identifying needs, potentials and constraints for renewable energy technologies, and will assist the development of a novel software tool for planning energy-efficient retrofits of residential buildings.