Historical Preservation and Energy Efficiency in Buildings: The Case Study of a Rural House in Italy

The energy refurbishment of historical buildings needs more attention than the other existing structures, because high care should be paid to their historical value. This paper explores the synergy between historical preservation and energy efficiency, in a typical rural house in Tuscany (Italy), by proposing energy efficiency measures respectful of the building fabric. By considering the community objectives, in terms of energy efficiency, widely highlighted in the new 2024 EPBD, this investigation aims to identify energy efficiency solutions that are effective from an energetic, and economic point of view. The first part of the study is dedicated to a state of the art on the different energy retrofit solutions adopted in historic buildings across Europe. Afterward, focusing on a case study - the so-called “Leopoldina” located in Cortona (Italy) - dynamic energy simulations are used to evaluate energy efficiency interventions. The energy refurbishment will lead to significant improvements in indoor thermal comfort, and to 40.1% saving in the building's energy demand, with a 77.6% energy reduction for heating. The research highlights the delicate balance necessary to preserve historical integrity while ensuring a sustainable future.