Integrated Optimization of Sustainable Retrofit Technologies for Energy Efficient Residential Buildings in Tropical Climates using Building Information Modelling Approach

IJEP 46(4): 326-341 : Vol. 46 Issue. 4 (April 2026)

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Eswary Devi T.1*, Sudhakar S.2, Siva M.3 and Ramshankar P.4

1. Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Department of Civil Engineering, Chennai – 602 105, Tamil Nadu,India
2. Sandip University, Department of Civil Engineering, Nashik – 422 213, Maharashtra, India
3. Easwari Engineering College, Department of Civil Engineering, Chennai – 600 089, Tamil Nadu, India
4. R.M.K. Engineering College, Department of Civil Engineering, Chennai – 601 206, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

The increasing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency in the construction industry has positioned retrofitting as a crucial approach for minimizing energy use in existing buildings. This study aimed to enhance the energy efficiency of a typical residential building in Chennai, India, by altering the assumed specifications. Building simulations and energy analysis were carried out using Revit Architecture and EnergyPlus software. Overall, 72 EnergyPlus simulations were conducted, considering 11 factors, including wall and roof materials, building orientation, window-to-wall proportions, window shades, occupancy management and daylighting, infiltration, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), operating schedule, lighting efficiency and plug load efficiency. Each factor had 4 to 9 variation levels, which can significantly impact the building’s energy efficiency. Optimizing these factors reduced the building’s cooling load from 148 to 78.9 kWh/m2, achieving a 46.7% reduction in energy usage. Hence, it was evident that appropriate choices of construction materials, building orientation, natural ventilation and lighting and equipment selection and utilization could augment energy efficiency in buildings. This significant improvement underscores the potential for integrated design approaches to serve as powerful energy conservation measures, with environmental significance in supporting broader goals of climate resilience, environmental stewardship and sustainable urban development.

Keywords

Energy efficiency, Sustainable retrofitting, Building information modelling, EnergyPlus, Environmental impact

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