Low-Carbon Renovation of Multi-Family Buildings – A Strategy for Measure Selection and Impact Analysis

The project aims to develop research-based and practically applicable knowledge on renovation that is climate-justified from a life cycle perspective. The focus is on identifying cost-effective measures that reduce climate impact, based on the specific conditions of Lulebo’s property portfolio in Luleå.

Renovation and energy efficiency improvements in existing buildings are essential to achieving Sweden’s climate goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. At the same time, this represents a complex challenge – technically, economically, in terms of competence, and organizationally. Measures must be adapted to the needs of the target group and the unique characteristics of each building, and be climate-justified across the entire life cycle.

Despite increasing technical knowledge about energy-efficient renovation, the practical implementation of its potential remains limited. Economic considerations often play a decisive role in determining which measures are carried out.

The project is conducted in strategic collaboration between Luleå University of Technology (LTU) and the municipal housing company Lulebo. Through case studies of multi-family buildings in Lulebo’s portfolio that are scheduled for renovation, various alternatives – such as window replacement or refurbishment of existing windows – are analysed. Life cycle assessments are used to evaluate the climate impact and cost-effectiveness of each measure option. The project generates new knowledge and supporting material that can assist housing companies in making well-informed decisions about renovation measures, while also contributing to the scientific understanding of low-carbon renovation within the building and property sector.

In addition to the research collaboration, the project also includes cooperation in education. Experiences and results from the project are integrated into LTU’s engineering programmes to strengthen students’ competence in sustainable renovation and life cycle analysis.

The project is funded by Lulebo and is carried out at LTU by two senior researchers and a PhD student

• Lulebo's press release about the collaboration project