Retrofitting and Ventilation: Challenges, Benefits and Lessons Learnt

A significant challenge lies in decarbonising existing residential stock to meet higher energy performance standards, necessitating increased energy retrofit activity. Despite the importance of energy retrofits, challenges arise in maintaining indoor environmental quality. While positive air quality and health benefits have been reported through targeted energy-retrofit activities, there are also numerous cases where indoor pollutant concentrations increase post-retrofit. Ventilation is often directly or indirectly impacted by changes in airtightness and/or ventilation systems, and the introduction of new building materials/products. Addressing these challenges ensures energy retrofits contribute to reduced environmental impact while maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Highlighting several examples of case studies is anticipated to promote discussion on informing priorities regarding retrofit strategies.