PNNL

Abstract

Providing strong economic and performance value is a primary challenge of convincing homeowners to implement deep energy retrofits to their wall systems. This study combines energy modeling and technoeconomic assessment of six experimental residential retrofit wall systems to typical existing homes in cold climates to evaluate their energy performance and cost effectiveness. Deep energy retrofits can significantly improve the energy performance of a home’s thermal envelope, help manage indoor environmental pollutants, increase homeowner comfort, increase building value, and register significant energy and cost savings in the process. We are evaluating exterior wall retrofit components and construction practices to measure and recommend steps to improve financial performance for manufacturers, installers and consumers. This study leverages a literature review, inputs from an advisory group made up of thermal enclosure experts, and simulations to identify state-of-the-art technologies for energy efficient wall systems that are suitable for cold and very cold climate zones. This paper will present results from energy modeling of six experimental wall systems compared to one baseline, that inform cost and energy performance of the subject wall systems.