The deeper renovation the better, BPIE’s study shows

A new analysis about further development of the Bulgarian renovation programme for multi-family buildings has been carried out by an international team of organizations. Following the implementation of the programme’s first phase, the study argues for a shift in focus towards achieving higher energy classes, reducing at the same time the level of public subsidy in a measured and manageable manner, Buildings Performance Institute Europe (BPIE) announced on its website.

The study coordinated by BPIE shows deep retrofitting to high energy efficiency classes is economically more beneficial than “shallow” renovation. It goes further by supporting the concept of step-by-step renovation, leading ultimately to a class A or nearly zero-energy building. Such a phased implementation would prevent the “lock-in” effect of shallow renovations, which might deliver quick gains in terms of energy saving, but ultimately hamper the achievement of the full potential for economic, social and environmental benefits, BPIE said.

Retrofitting to high energy efficiency classes is economically more beneficial than “shallow” renovation

Several scenarios to 2030 were modelled in the study from which the writers conclude that reducing subsidies to around 75% is possible now. By strengthening further support measures, subsidies could ultimately be reduced to around 25%. In doing so, funding could reach many more citizens, improving their homes and increasing their quality of life, BPIE stated.

In order to facilitate increased financial contributions from homeowners, simple and attractive financing mechanisms and incentives – appropriate to the needs of residents – need to be developed. These should be accompanied by other non-financial measures such as awareness-raising campaigns, building capacity throughout the supply chain and developing standardized solutions to bring costs down. Simplified procedures and measures to help homeowners through the application process will also reduce barriers and costs, the statement adds.