University building: Energy diagnosis and refurbishment design with cost-optimal approach. Discussion about the effect of numerical modelling assumptions

Moreover, the importance to use validated models is examined exhaustively by proposing a sensitivity analysis on uncertainties due to modelling assumptions mainly referring to the adoption of stochastic schedules for occupant behaviour and equipment or lighting usage. First of all, this analysis shows that the calibration indexes are always dissatisfied; besides it is demonstrated that refurbishment design can appear more convenient, with wrong assumptions. For instance, one of proposed scenario brings to energy saving of −41% and reduction of global cost of around −36%.