KPIs as catalyst for energy-efficient building renovation under EU regulations

In a time where sustainability is paramount, evaluating and optimizing energy retrofit projects in historic buildings is essential. This study introduces Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as part of a new Life Cycle Assessment methodology aimed at achieving net-zero energy renovations. The integration process offers actionable insights and a structured framework for stakeholders to evaluate sustainable renovation choices, encompassing several steps: deriving KPIs from preliminary analysis, organizing them within the PESTEL framework, and creating equations for quantitative KPIs. The last step aligns KPI development with the Life Cycle Assessment targeted at nearly Zero Emission Renovation methodology, improving its adaptability across various economic contexts. However, differences in local socio-political conditions may emerge, highlighting the need for additional research on how Indicators can vary by project location. Qualitative Indicators pertain to Political and Social dimensions, whereas quantitative ones involve specific measurement units. This review paper underscores the relationship between KPIs and the methodology, illustrating how they can be identified or calculated at different renovation phases, such as component selection and overall environmental impact. The established Indicators could assist in updating the European Standard EN 16883:2017, addressing energy renovation challenges for historic structures. An improved standard could provide clear guidelines, balancing conservation efforts with sustainability while fostering collaboration among stakeholders, implementing the methodological framework of Monitoring, Evaluating and Learning (MEL).