Published: September 2020
Organization: The Atmospheric Fund (TAF)
Format: Report
Estimated Reading Time: 15~30 minutes (Full report: 63 pages — see audience-specific sections below for recommended reading)
Why We Recommend It?
This comprehensive report makes a compelling business case for deep energy retrofits in multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs). It challenges traditional payback models and introduces improved business evaluation methods that incorporate life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) and non-energy benefits (NEBs)—such as property value appreciation, reduced maintenance costs, and tenant satisfaction. With actionable recommendations for multiple stakeholders and real-world case studies, it’s an essential read for those looking to align building upgrades with financial, regulatory, and climate goals.
Audience-Specific
For Building Owners & Developers
Key Takeaways:
- Deep retrofits enhance property value, rental income, and climate resilience, while reducing maintenance costs and energy bills.
- Financial payback should be assessed using lifecycle costs and non-energy benefits—not just energy savings.
- Tailored financing mechanisms (e.g., utility on-bill programs, Local Improvement Charges) can help overcome upfront barriers.
- An integrated design and project delivery approach minimizes complexity while maximizing benefits.
Recommended Reading:
- Pages 5–8: Executive Summary & Recommendations
- Pages 10–17: The Case for Deep Retrofits
- Pages 31–36: Financing Solutions for MURB Deep Retrofits
- Pages 53–63: Appendix E – Business Case Evaluation Case Study
For Designers & Consultants
Key Takeaways:
- Deep retrofits require a whole-building approach, integrating envelope upgrades, HVAC optimization, and renewable energy.
- Using improved financial evaluation models strengthens the business case for deep retrofits, increasing client buy-in.
- A phased retrofit approach can help spread costs while still achieving long-term efficiency gains.
Recommended Reading:
For Builders & Contractors
Key Takeaways:
- Demonstrates how deep retrofits can unlock long-term cost and energy savings through proven retrofit strategies.
- Reinforces the need for future-proofing business operations to align with emerging market demand and government-led retrofit programs.
Recommended Reading:
For Government & Utilities
Key Takeaways:
- Government-backed financing mechanisms and policy incentives can significantly accelerate market adoption.
- Embedding deep retrofits into housing and climate policies supports equity and economic development.
- The report outlines regulatory solutions, education pathways, and incentive structures to address known barriers.
Recommended Reading:
- Page 4: Foreword
- Pages 5–8: Executive Summary & Recommendations
- Pages 10–17: The Case for Deep Retrofits
- Page 30: Barriers to Financing Deep Retrofits
- Pages 31–36: Financing Solutions for MURB Deep Retrofits
Next Steps & Related Reading...
- Still exploring the value of green buildings? Dive deeper into our Business Case section for insights from different perspectives—or check out our Case Studies for real-world examples that bring the numbers to life.
- Ready to move forward? Visit the Carbon Neutral Buildings section to dive into key concepts and practical strategies—or explore our Resource Library to find topics that matter most to you.