Investigating cost-effective strategies for energy efficiency and carbon reduction: the role of air conditioning systems in an industrial case study

Investing in cost-effective energy efficiency strategies is essential for decarbonizing the industrial sector, particularly in energy-intensive facilities where heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems represent a large share of total demand. Measures such as retrofitting the building envelope or improving technical systems can deliver substantial savings while requiring limited investments. This study examines the effectiveness of two targeted interventions at an Italian manufacturing site: installation of a high-reflectance roof membrane and replacement of oversized air handling unit motors with high-efficiency models. Energy savings were assessed using absolute comparison, normalized indicators, and the International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol, which provided the most reliable estimates compared to simpler approaches. Both interventions led to significant reductions in electricity consumption with short payback times, emphasizing the value of replicable, low-cost measures combined with rigorous monitoring for industrial decarbonization and providing a basis for future developments involving model improvements and advanced prediction tools.