Standardising Deep-Renovation Planning: An Archetype-Based Methodology for Generating Building Renovation Passports

Energy Department, Politecnico di Milano, Via Lambruschini 4, Milano, Italy

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Abstract

Building on the requirements introduced by the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), which identifies the Building Renovation Passport (BRP) as a key instrument for supporting long-term renovation strategies, this study proposes a methodological framework for BRP generation, addressing a current gap in the literature. The paper starts with a literature review highlighting limitations in existing BRP approaches, including fragmented data structures, heterogeneous modelling practices and limited scalability across building types and contexts. Grounded on this literature, the paper illustrates an archetype-based modelling methodological framework, whereby reference buildings synthesise the geometric, constructive and operational characteristics of the building stock and provide a reproducible and scalable foundation for BRPs development. This structure enables evaluations across building groups and is combined with a multi-objective optimisation procedure that explores combinations of renovation measures. By producing transparent and quantifiable renovation pathways, the methodology also strengthens the bankability of renovation projects, supporting investment planning and risk assessment. Overall, the integrated approach enables the construction of staged and cost-effective renovation roadmaps aligned with EPBD principles and applicable from individual buildings to city and region scale assessments. The study delivers a unified and operational workflow that addresses key methodological gaps and enhances the technical basis for the practical implementation of BRPs.