The project identified and analysed current design processes in retrofit projects and it was recommended that participatory design mechanisms be used in the design process in order to achieve improved outcomes. The development of the Integrated Retrofit Design Methodology (IDM) was formed from stakeholder feedback as well as research into data collection, building-neighbourhood synergies, post-retrofit monitoring and the defining of sustainability KPIs. It guides all involved stakeholders in finding the most effective energy retrofitting solutions. The project was able to design the different software tools, to form the NewTREND Platform. Central to this was the District Information Model (DIM) server, which is the exchange database for all data concerned with the sustainability of buildings within the neighbourhood. It was developed in an iterative fashion as each module of the platform became available. The Data Manager supports the building user/ design team to collect all of the necessary documents and data required for the creation of a DIM model of the existing area without unnecessary duplication. The Technology and Business Model library was created from deep research at technical and financial levels into retrofit technologies. The Library contains quantitative information and data on the technologies to be used an as an informative tool, to demonstrate case studies and to be directly used in the Simulation and Design Hub (SDH). The activities to develop the SDH involved using the technologies in the Library and mapping these to templates contained in IES VE/VPP tools so that simulations could occur at both building and neighbourhood levels. It enabled the evaluation of the building and the surrounding neighbourhood to guide decision makers in the selection of the best energy retrofitting strategy. Included in the SDH are user behavioural models and algorithms to take into account occupant perspectives. In order for users to be able to ensure the correct implementation and management of the methodology, the Collaborative Design Platform (CDP) was developed. It is customisable to different stakeholders and gives visualisation of results. A set of comprehensive financial planning templates and prospective business models were also developed. These offer a synergy with savings, renewable energy initiatives, smart networks and consumers, that can be to be included in the decision making process and facilitate the realistic evaluation of risks and savings. The methodology and NewTREND platform were validated using three demo sites in Finland, Hungary and Spain. Each demo site had to create cityGML and IFC files, which was done through a variety of different techniques, before uploading these to the DIM server. In terms of dissemination, the relevant groups of stakeholders were targeted through a variety of means i.e. website, social media, brochures, conferences. The production of a comprehensive Exploitation Strategy will enable the key project outcomes to fulfil its potential as marketable, commercialised products following the end of the project.
