Retrofitting of Buildings to Improve Energy Efficiency: A Comprehensive Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Directions

Abstract

A large body of research has been developed with the aim of assisting policymakers in setting ambitious and achievable environmental targets for the retrofit of current and future building types for energy-efficiency and in creating effective retrofit strategies to meet these targets. The aim of this research is to conduct a comprehensive study to identify the relationship between building type and sustainability, with a particular emphasis on retrofitting and try to identify research gaps in the most effective energy-saving strategies for retrofitting various types of buildings. In this regard, this study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP). Sixty relevant papers are selected and reviewed, establishing a comprehensive searching scheme. The research highlights retrofitting strategies for improving energy efficiency in buildings and discuss the limitations of current practises in terms of physical and technical developments, such as utilising new energy systems and innovative retrofitting materials. To overcome these, future studies could focus on in-depth building classification, developing tailored retrofitting alternatives, and establishing an adaptive solution framework. This framework aligns cohesively with diverse typologies, adapting to changing contexts and enhancing long-term performance