Within the scope of the Horizon 2020 project – REFURB, Aalborg University together with the Danish partners Project Zero and CLEAN, has developed a cost effective methodology to renovate single family houses.

The developed optimized method consists of 5 steps:

1. Theoretical energy saving calculation and initial renovation measures development
2. Technical solutions to renovate to nZEB
3. Price calculation of the technical solutions
4. Cost efficiency
5. Final development of group of measures/Steps examples

The method takes into account energy saving potential, cost efficiency, aesthetics and the synergy of the proposed renovation activities. Optimized Renovation measures for Young Families and Renovation Steps for Empty Nesters are proposed as the outcome of the study. To illustrate practical applications of the methodology, example Measures and Steps have been developed for the case of a residential house of 136 m² floor area that was constructed in 1973.

The intention of the Renovation Measures/Steps is to encourage home owners to take action and energy improve their houses while at the same time lower running cost of their houses and guarantee comfortable living condition for their families.