Energy performance assessment of the multifamily building stock: The potential of renovation for energy demand reduction, decarbonisation and energy poverty mitigation

14 April 2026
abstract:

This report examines the potential of building energy renovation and renewable energy integration to support decarbonisation and reduce energy poverty in private multifamily buildings. The analysis covers three pilot cities: Rumia (Poland), Torres Vedras (Portugal), and Piraeus (Greece). Using DREEM energy simulation model for representative dwelling typologies, the study assesses the impact of insulation, heating system upgrades, and photovoltaic installations on energy demand, carbon emissions, and energy bills. Heat pumps emerged as the most impactful and cost-effective solution, particularly in Torres Vedras and Piraeus, with potential energy bill reductions exceeding 50%. Thermal insulation showed lower cost-effectiveness but remained beneficial for older and low-performing buildings. Biomass and gas boiler upgrades delivered meaningful savings in less efficient dwellings, while photovoltaic systems demonstrated favourable cost-effectiveness despite technical constraints. The findings help identify the most suitable measures for vulnerable households and provide evidence to support municipalities in designing targeted energy

keywords: poverty mitigation policies and more effective local climate strategies
JEL codes: 
publication year: 2026
language: english
Publications category: 
publishing series: Project Deliverable
publication number: LOCATEE Deliverable 3.3
Additional information:

The authors would like to thank Ricardo Barbosa (AdEPORTO – Porto Energy Agency | LOCATEE Advisory Board) for insightful and accurate comments.
The document is co-funded by the European Union under LIFE project n°101167621. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Projects related to this publication:
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files to download
authors:

NOVA School of Science and Technology (FCT NOVA)

TEESlab – University of Piraeus Research Center (UPRC)

TEESlab – University of Piraeus Research Center (UPRC)

Municipality of Piraeus

TEESlab – University of Piraeus Research Center (UPRC)

Institute for Structural Research,
University of Warsaw

Institute for Structural Research (IBS)

NOVA School of Science and Technology (FCT NOVA)

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