An enhanced framework for next‐generation operational buildings energy performance certificates

The improvement of the energy performance of buildings is identified as one of the core challenges toward achieving a carbon-neutral built environment. In the 2018 recast of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, the European Commission has emphasized the need for improved schemes, to ensure the best possible evaluation of the actual energy performance of buildings, taking into consideration all the parameters related both to their construction and operation. Significant research efforts have been designated in this area, to identifying the additional information required to not only improve the energy performance certification process but also to provide more thorough reports to end-users. To increase comprehension, awareness, and thus genuine involvement, cutting-edge digital technologies are expected to be used. The research project entitled "Next-generation Dynamic Digital EPCs for Enhanced Quality and User Awareness" (D<^>2EPC GA 892984) introduces a comprehensive approach to next-generation Energy Performance Certificates that addresses the main challenges and gaps in buildings' energy assessment process, by introducing additional layers of information for the assessor and the user. A non-exhaustive list of the novel set of Energy Performance Certificates indicators, proposed in D<^>2EPC includes energy, smart readiness, wellbeing, comfort, financial, and sustainability related indicators. In this study, aspects of employing advanced digital solutions, like Building Information Modelling and Geographical Information Systems for the certification process are also demonstrated, through a well structured, high-level, detailed representation of the next-generation Energy Performance Certificates system architecture. This framework elaborates on individual components and their interaction, toward delivering the envisioned final enriched cloud-based platform, that will enable dynamic Energy Performance Certificates based on (near) real-time field data. This study aspires to initiate the discussion within the scientific community of buildings' energy assessment on the required practices for digitizing and enriching the certification process of buildings, in compliance with Industry 4.0 practices.