Organizational Decision-Making and the Implementation of Energy-Efficiency Measures; A Socio-Technical Analysis Using Attic Insulation as an Analytical Case

Abstract

Despite increasing regulatory pressure and growing awareness of sustainability, many technically feasible energy-efficiency measures are not implemented within the ex isting building stock. This thesis investigates the organizational, technical, and economic factors that influence decision-making regarding such measures. Supple mentary attic insulation is used as an analytical case study, based on a building at Sankt Eriksgatan 4 in Gothenburg. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining a literature review, seven semi structured interviews with professionals in the Swedish real estate sector, building energy simulations in IDA ICE, and profitability calculations. The simulations eval uated the effects of supplementary attic insulation, moisture-related risks, and the cost of mitigation measures. The simulations also indicate high relative humidity levels in the attic both before and after insulation. Moisture mitigation is therefore necessary, not only as a con sequence of the proposed measure but also to address an existing risk. When the costs of insulation and dehumidification are included, the combined investment has an estimated payback period of 10.27 years, an annual return of 9.75%, and a 50 year return on investment of 387%. The interview findings demonstrate that technical feasibility and long-term prof itability alone are insufficient to ensure implementation. Budget constraints, strict return requirements, uncertainty regarding future building use, split incentives, or ganizational inertia, and insufficient knowledge integration were identified as im portant barriers. At the same time, increasing energy prices, internal sustainability targets, and regulatory requirements were identified as key drivers. The study concludes that the implementation of energy-efficiency measures depends on the interaction between technical performance, economic conditions, organiza tional structures, institutional pressure, knowledge-sharing practices and the abil ity to manage uncertainty. Strengthening these organizational conditions can help property owners transform technical and economic potential into practical imple mentation.