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Residential Energy Efficiency Retrofits: Potential Unintended Consequences

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  • Collins, Matthew
  • Dempsey, Seraphim

Abstract

Improving the energy efficiency of the residential building stock has increasingly been promoted by policy makers as a means of reducing energy demand in the residential sector. We review the literature on some non-energy impacts of energy efficiency retrofitting measures aimed at increasing the air tightness and thermal insulation of residential properties. Specifically, we review the impact of retrofitting measures on indoor pollutants, mould growth, attenuation of radio signal and overheating. We show that without the provision of adequate ventilation, increased air tightness can result in higher levels of indoor pollutants and mould growth. Similarly, we show that in certain circumstances thermal insulation has the potential to result in increased signal attenuation and overheating. We detail the policy implications of these findings and outline policy actions that have been implemented in case study countries where these consequences are an issue.

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  • Collins, Matthew & Dempsey, Seraphim, 2017. "Residential Energy Efficiency Retrofits: Potential Unintended Consequences," Papers WP554, Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI).
    • Handle: RePEc:esr:wpaper:wp554
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    1. Willand, Nicola & Ridley, Ian & Maller, Cecily, 2015. "Towards explaining the health impacts of residential energy efficiency interventions – A realist review. Part 1: Pathways," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 133(C), pages 191-201.
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    Cited by:

    1. Kheira Anissa Tabet Aoul & Rahma Hagi & Rahma Abdelghani & Monaya Syam & Boshra Akhozheya, 2021. "Building Envelope Thermal Defects in Existing and Under-Construction Housing in the UAE; Infrared Thermography Diagnosis and Qualitative Impacts Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(4), pages 1-23, February.
    2. Coyne, Bryan & Denny, Eleanor, 2021. "Retrofit effectiveness: Evidence from a nationwide residential energy efficiency programme," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 159(C).
    3. Barry Mc Carron & Xianhai Meng & Shane Colclough, 2020. "An Investigation into Indoor Radon Concentrations in Certified Passive House Homes," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-13, June.

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