Development of protocol for sub-metering for simulation models of shopping centres

The study investigates the efficiencies and inefficiencies associated with the everyday management, operation and use of shopping centres and aims to identify the drivers, barriers and potentials associated with the operation of shopping centres. Its main focus was to track inefficient use and user implications in complex buildings (shopping centres). First, the main predictor variables and performance indicators were identified. A protocol for sub-metering of energy consumption and flows (mainly heat and electricity, but also other sources and common services) was defined as necessary basis in order to be able to track inefficient use and user implications. User profiles were split into sub-categories, owners, tenants (shop owners, differentiating by size and type) and end-users (shopper, with appropriate differentiation) are three minimal differentiations. The proposed method provides a solid basis for performance based economic models that have to be introduced in order to be able to apply cost-effective refurbishment investments. The results of key performance indicators provided valuable input in the decision making process for deep retrofitting plans. Different proposals for visualization of results (feedback to managers, tenants, customers) were investigated and are discussed.