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 simulations 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 poverty mitigation policies and more effective local climate strategies.
Palma et al. (Wed,) studied this question.