Optimizing energy efficiency and Sustainable utilization of National Heritage through the remodeling of closed school buildings

Abstract

South Korea's declining fertility rate has led to numerous school closures, particularly in rural areas. Many of these shuttered schools, especially those designated as National Registered Cultural Heritage, face significant reuse challenges due to outdated infrastructure and strict preservation regulations. Common issues include poor insulation, energy inefficiency, and high carbon emissions, complicating modern adaptations. Moreover, the Cultural Heritage Protection Law limits structural modifications, hindering effective remodeling. This study explores strategies for remodeling closed schools designated as National Registered Cultural Heritage, focusing on enhancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions while complying with preservation laws. A case study of a 1930 s school registered as National Cultural Heritage was conducted, using performance diagnostics such as thermal transmittance, airtightness, and indoor air quality measurements before and after remodeling. Results showed a substantial improvement in thermal transmittance, from 1.47 W/m2K to 0.38 W/m2K, and a significant reduction in air leakage, from 606.4/h to 11.0/h. This resulted in a 29 % decrease in total energy consumption, from 190.7 kWh/m2 to 135.1 kWh/m2. Simulations suggest energy use could potentially drop to 104.4 kWh/m2 with in depth remodeling. Additionally, the study examined potential efficiency gains if the Cultural Heritage Protection Law were amended to allow more extensive modernization. Findings indicated that remodeling under revised legal constraints could lower embodied carbon by 32.6 %. Overall, the research highlights the need for legislative changes to fully enhance the energy performance of culturally significant buildings while preserving their historical integrity. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.