Historical Buildings and Energy

This book provides a methodological framework to set properly the thermal enhancement and energy efficiency in historical buildings during a renovation process. It describes the unique thermal features of historical properties, closely examining how the building materials, structural elements, and state of conservation can impact energy efficiency, including sample calculations and results. It also describes means and aims of several fundamental steps to improve energy efficiency in historical buildings with an experimentation on a case study. This timely text also introduces leading-edge technologies for enhancing the energy performance of historical buildings, including the potential for integration of co- ad tri-generation though micro-turbines, photovoltaics and solar collectors and their compatibility with architectural preservation.

Dr. Giovanna Franco architect, PhD is Associate Professor in Technology of Architecture at the University of Genoa, Italy and Director of the Graduate School (post master) in Architectural Heritage and Landscape of the same University. Her research topics include: Traditional Architecture, methodologies and techniques for its renovation; Maintenance, Upgrading and Enhancement of 20th Century Built Heritage; Technological Innovation, Sustainability and Energy Efficiency in Historical Context and Protected Landscape. She has been scientific responsible in several national researches and involved in international ones (5FP Growth 2000, Culture 2000, Medplan, Erasmus+). 

Dr. Anna Magrini is Full Professor in Building Physics at the University of Pavia, Italy. Her research interests include: Acoustics, Noise Pollution, Air-conditioning, Hygrometric problems of building structures, Heat transfer, Ventilation, Energy performance of buildings, Calculation models, Environmental, Acoustic and Lighting Comfort. Dr. Magrini coordinates and participates in projects of Italian national interest investigating the energy performance of existing buildings, acoustics, urban quality and health perception.