Thermal Performance and Energy Renovation Potential of a Soviet-Era Multi-Apartment Residential Building in a Cold Climate: A Case Study of Kazakhstan

Improving the energy efficiency of existing residential buildings is a key challenge for reducing energy consumption in cold climate regions. A considerable proportion of the housing stock in Kazakhstan consists of Soviet-era multi-apartment buildings characterized by high heat losses and low thermal performance. The aim of this study is to assess heat losses and evaluate the energy-saving potential of a typical multi-apartment residential building located in a cold climate. A comprehensive energy audit was conducted, including an analysis of the thermal performance of building envelopes, calculation of heat losses through walls, windows, roof, and heating system pipelines, thermographic inspection, and air infiltration measurements using blower door testing. The results show that the largest share of heat losses occurs through external walls, windows, and uninsulated heating pipelines. The implementation of thermal modernization measures, such as wall insulation, window replacement, and pipeline insulation, can significantly reduce the building’s heat consumption and improve overall energy performance. The findings of this study demonstrate the high potential for improving the energy efficiency of existing residential buildings and may be useful for developing renovation strategies for similar buildings in cold climate regions.