A methodology for spatial modelling of energy and resource use of buildings in urbanized areas

This paper presents and discusses a methodology for modeling energy and resource use of urban building stocks. The methodology integrates and further develops methodologies for energy, carbon and resource use analysis on building stocks with the aim of applying these to a case study of the City of Gothenburg, Sweden. Integrating geographical information systems (GIS) in the methodology for modeling of the building stock, allows assessment of the contribution and effect of various strategies to meet environmental goals for municipalities, portfolio owners, such as housing associations and institutional investors. The methodology identifies different development strategies including various options for refurbishment, add-on and new construction, which are evaluated with respect to their potential environmental impacts related to the life-cycle of the building, including construction and end-of-life options.