Measuring Energy Performance Improvements in Dwellings Using Thin Internal Wall Insulation

There are significant barriers to uptake with conventional Solid Wall Insulation (SWI), such as installation cost, risks of cold bridging, loss of internal space if using internal SWI amongst others. Thin Internal Wall Insulation (TIWI) could be a potential solution where conventional internal SWI is not a viable option. TIWI will likely not be as effective as conventional SWI in terms of energy saving potential. However, it is thought the above SWI barriers to uptake may be significantly mitigated with TIWI, resulting in much higher take-up and subsequent carbon savings. It is proposed to use an unoccupied test home with measured thermal efficiency characteristics in its uninsulated state. Following multiple TIWI retrofits, the contractor will reassess the thermal characteristics of the property, thus quantifying the effectiveness of TIWI products. Subsequently a conventional internal SWI retrofit will then be undertaken to establish the comparable energy savings.