Energy-efficient Optimization of Life-cycle Costs Based on BIM

Abstract

This article deals with a methodology for the economic development of energy-efficient buildings from an early planning or development phase based on building information modelling (BIM). In this context, both geometrically and energetically relevant parameters of a building are derived from a digital building model, already in the early phase of a project. The subsequent definition of building components for the building envelope and the performance of an energy demand calculation provides the basis for the selection of reference buildings suitable for the respective application. This enables the determination of practical costs, which include both annuity costs and total costs arising in the life cycle of the building for the cost groups of the building structures and the technical building equipment. By taking a holistic view of all costs and focusing specifically on energy efficiency, the methodology presented in this article can be used to identify both ecological and economic advantages for planning in the early stages of a project. By incorporating energy efficiency and economic efficiency, a sustainable and successful project can be achieved.