Argentinean energy transition. The new energy efficiency standard in the evaluation of social housing. Case study: Barrio Papa Francisco

Abstract

The building sector is responsible for 40% of the energy demand internationally, and for 37% in Argentina. Heating and cooling are the most representative item. Rational energy usage measures are being introduced in countries throughout the world, as well as strategies that pursue energy transition. The passing of the IRAM 11900 standard in Argentina promotes energy efficiency (EE) in the residential building sector, and it is expected to be inclusive and lead to the transition by 2050. The aim of this work is to perform the thermo-energy evaluation of an existing social dwelling prototype in “Barrio Papa Francisco” (Pope Francisco Neighborhood), as well as in its two improved variations: “retrofit” and “ex ante”. For this, information is collected about the dimensions, construction systems, building envelope components and equipment to meet demands for heating, cooling, domestic hot water and lighting. As a relevant result, it is reported that the energy supply index (IPE, in Spanish) of the existing prototype reaches a value of 132 kWhPrim./m2.year. In addition, the retrofit and ex ante variations lead to considerable economic savings in the initial investment. This is why the importance of implementing software analysis at the design stage is considered as important in order to quantify energy resources and emissions savings in a planned energy transition.