Typology of the energy performance-based contractual models for comprehensive refurbishment in the buildings sector

Panel: 5A. Cutting the energy use of buildings: Projects and technologies

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Laziza Rakhimova, International Consulting on Energy, Burgeap
, France
Natalia ZUGRAVU-SOILITA, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, CEMOTEV Research Center
, France
Christophe MILIN, ADEME, France

Abstract

The legal framework applicable to the Energy Performance Contract (EPC) is derived from both European Union (EU) and national legislations. At the EU level, the core definition of the EPC is to be found in the Directive 2006/32/EC, but it has not yet been fully transposed into the legislation of all European countries. Furthermore, most existing definitions are not operational, that is to say sufficiently explicit to establish the elements, conditions and modalities of implementation. No standardized and comprehensive typology of EPC models has yet been widely accepted. Consequently, actors of the energy efficiency markets have different understandings of EPC; functionalities and the characterizing clauses that should explicitly define an EPC are still unclear.

In order to improve understanding of EPC’s characteristics and risks by the potential clients and thus facilitate the ESCOs marketing of their services, it is essential to clarify underlying characterizing concepts behind these particular contractual models. Especially, models favouring deep retrofits should be highlighted to boost massive refurbishment of the building stock. Clarified contractual models could improve confidence in the market and open the way for private capitals and new actors, providing alternatives to the insufficiency of available funds to cover the large rehabilitation needs in Europe.

This paper aims at conceiving a classification and conceptualization of EPC models for energy refurbishment projects in the buildings sector. It provides an overview and critical analysis of the current EPC typologies proposed by various actors (ESCOs, think tanks, research institutions, etc.). From these numerous, heterogeneous and sometimes contradictory EPC classifications, we derive consistent and pertinent models focusing on deep energy retrofitting, having the potential to induce high energy savings and to be replicated further on a large scale. We illustrate our models with several practical cases.