EXERGY ANALYSIS OF RETROFITTING MEASURES FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN PRIMARY EDUCATION BUILDINGS: A CASE STUDY OF NIŠ, SERBIA

Abstract

This study explores the intricate relationship between exergy and key building parameters such as windows, insulation, and lighting, emphasizing their impact on energy efficiency and sustainability. Exergy indicates the quality of an energy source, representing a certain quantity of energy in a system for performing maximum amount of work. It is a critical metric for evaluating building performance. By analyzing the interaction between elements' design and performance characteristics, the research highlights how effective insulation reduces heat loss, how strategically designed windows optimize natural light while minimizing heat gain, and how advanced lighting technologies improve energy efficiency. Furthermore, the study examines the integration of heat pump systems into heating configurations. Results indicate that while using a radiator and underfloor heating systems yields nearly identical performance, the system with a heat pump and underfloor heating demonstrates superior performance, offering better exergy efficiency. These findings provide a framework for optimizing building performance, promoting sustainable energy practices, and reducing environmental impact. The case study was conducted for a school in a rural area of Niš that underwent renovation.