Integrating Seismic Strengthening and Energy Efficiency for Building Renovation: Bio-based Insulation, BIPV, and Structural Retrofits for Minimal Disruption

Abstract

The aging European building stock presents a significant challenge, as a substantial share of buildings in seismic-prone regions do not match modern seismic standards. The European Green Deal promotes building renovation to enhance energy efficiency while ensuring seismic safety. However, while energy retrofitting is widely applied, seismic strengthening is less common mainly due to the disruption it causes to occupants. This study introduces an innovative renovation approach integrating seismic and energy upgrades with minimal disruption. The proposed method strengthens exterior beam-column joints while enhancing the envelope’s thermal and energy performance using bio-based insulation panels and Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) cladding. Acting only from outside, the need to relocate residents during renovations is reduced. The approach is tested in a social housing case study in Margherita di Savoia, Italy, as an initiative part of the Horizon Europe REHOUSE project, which aims to 
provide scalable and sustainable renovation solutions across the EU. The combined interven tion enhances seismic resilience and energy efficiency while addressing socio-economic and environmental challenges through a reduced disruption and the use of sustainable materials. Results show that seismic upgrades based on carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) led to a five-fold increase in seismic safety with a competitive cost. Energy efficiency, by reducing thermal transmittance, has led to a considerable reduction in the building's energy demand. Additionally, the photovoltaic integration on the building facades will meet the demand for electricity to run the heat pumps.