A Methodological Framework for Integrated Life Cycle Assessment and Life Cycle Cost of Passive Energy Renovation of Residential Buildings in Serbia

<p>This paper develops a methodological framework for the integrated assessment of life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costs (LCC) in the decision-making process for passive energy renovation of multi-family residential buildings in Serbia. The proposed framework enables a systematic selection of building materials and components for energy renovation, taking into account both the environmental footprint and the total costs over the life cycle of the building after renovation. The methodological framework consists of seven steps. The first step involves calculating the operational energy of the existing building, analyzing the total energy consumption required for the building’s functionality, including heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and electrical appliances. Next, passive energy renovation scenarios are defined, and various material and assembly proposals for improving energy efficiency are formulated. The next step involves calculating the embodied energy for each renovation scenario, considering the energy required for material extraction, production, transportation, installation, maintenance, and recycling. This is followed by a simulation-based calculation of operational energy for each renovation scenario and the determination of potential energy savings. Subsequently, the environmental impact of materials is evaluated through a life cycle assessment of selected materials and assemblies. In parallel with the life cycle assessment, a life cycle cost analysis is conducted to assess the long-term economic aspects of energy renovation from the moment of renovation until the end of the building’s life cycle. Finally, the results are integrated to support optimal decision-making by analyzing all previous steps to determine the best material choices for achieving both environmentally and economically sustainable energy renovation. The aim of this research is to provide an applicable framework for assessing the environmental impacts and life cycle costs of a building from the renovation phase to the end of its life cycle, facilitating the advancement of sustainable energy renovation strategies for multi-family residential buildings.</p>