In this work, we make a comparative study of energy performance in
different types of buildings. We analyse three cases of office and three of residential
buildings, which are compared with samples of previous researches. We look for
correlative or different behaviour in terms of potential energy losses and gains. Then,
we compare indicators and indexes with Argentinean Standards to verify their
efficiency level. We use the “Energo-CAD” methodology and energy model, based on
steady-state balances. We discuss the results of energy audits that show discomfort with
high energy demand, and their relation to energy breakdown in this country. We
conclude that the indicators employed show clear results, and facilitate the comparison
among studied cases. There are discrepancies among different size buildings, and we
must remark the progressive growth of energy inefficiency. Nevertheless, small
buildings are relatively less energy-efficient than large ones. This work ends showing
that the sample does not meet the National Standards, even when they are compulsory
by law since 2003 in the province of Buenos Aires.
Keywords: Argentina, buildings, comfort level, electricity, energy indicators,
energy efficiency, energy audits, energy consumption, energy demand, energy
indicators, energy model, energy performance, energy policies, environment,
habitat, housing, metropolitan area, natural gas, residential buildings, Standards,
sustainable design, thermal load.
