In its simplest explanation, retrofitting refers to the addition of new features and technology to older houses or buildings. Examples of retrofitting strategies include:
Stakeholders and designers strive to meet sustainability goals and standards with their new build through innovative technologies, star ratings and special features. However, the thousands of builds of the 80’s, 90’s and 00’s that currently run through our cities and towns don’t meet the current sustainability targets. There are many opportunities for older homes and buildings to improve their efficiency capabilities and ratings through retrofitting procedures.
A major transition has occurred, and retrofitting has become more common. In the last ten years, 20% of Australian homes have installed power panels. The Victorian Energy Efficiency Target has now carried out over three million upgrade.
Veolia (2018) gave an astounding example exemplifying the benefits of retrofitting. Kings Technology Park Melbourne conducted four upgrades to their building including installing a new air ducting system, new chillers, new cooling tower and installing a digital building control system. As a result, the asset now saves $250,000 per year on energy costs.
Acquiring a NABERS rating is a method used to assist in effectively retrofits existing buildings. It helps buildings reach sustainability goals by measuring their energy usage and highlighting the possible room for improvement forcing new and existing buildings to aim for better more sustainable energy usage goals. The team of architects and engineers at Certified Energy can provide your project with a NABERS star rating.
The highly qualified team at Certified Energy can provide you with a variety of services to assist retrofit your project and bring it to its full potential! We provide a variety of certifications and services to help improve the overall efficiency of your existing property! Our team can give you valuable advice and help you take the first step to retrofitting your property.
Sources:
https://www.veolia.com/anz/five-rules-retrofit-0