In Ireland and globally, a primary concern is whether retrofitted houses perform as promised to provide occupants with better indoor environment quality (IEQ), which may affect their satisfaction and health. Although there has been growing interest in the performance of retrofitted residential buildings, a post-occupancy evaluation of performance is required as evidence of improvements. I am evaluating the performance of 100 Galway homes based on indoor temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels. All selected homes possess a Building Energy Rating (BER) of A2 or better, aligning with stringent energy-efficiency standards. These homes are scored based on the continuous monitoring of daily average temperature and relative humidity over a duration of at least twelve months to assess compliance with established comfort zones (Temperature: 18-24°C, RH: 40-60%, and CO2: <1000 PPM). In addition to the scoring assigned based on meeting the comfort standards, Time of Wetness (TOW) is calculated to evaluate the risk of mould development. The results of this study can be helpful in evaluating building performance, particularly when energy savings are contractually guaranteed. It underscores the importance of monitoring the indoor environment post-occupancy to ensure that energy efficiencies do not compromise the indoor climate. Building owners, Energy Service Companies, and local authorities will benefit from such type of assessment framework, as it will provide a concise, single-page assessment of building performance and contractual terms.
Profile
As a researcher at MaREI, the SFI Research Centre for Energy, Climate and Marine Research, I am working on an interdisciplinary project that explores the interrelationships between operational energy demand practices, internal environmental conditions in buildings, people occupying buildings, materials, and technology used in the retrofit of buildings. My goal is to contribute to the development of innovative and sustainable solutions for energy resilience and the built environment.
I am passionate about science communication and outreach, and I use various platforms and mediums to share my knowledge and insights with diverse audiences. I am proficient in English, Urdu, and Sindhi, and have skills in finance, nationally determined contribution, and faith-based initiatives. I am motivated by curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, and I strive to make a positive impact on society and the environment through my research and teaching.
The interrelationships between the operational energy demand practices the internal environmental conditions in buildings, the people occupying the buildings and the materials and technology used in the retrofit of buildings