The building industry, contributing 41% of global GHG emissions, must rapidly adopt efficient workflows to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. This project aims to explore achieving Net Zero in 2025. Can we lower operational energy in cold climates without offsetting embedded emissions through clean energy? How can computational techniques guide architects during early design stages? The research focuses on rehabilitating an old water power plant in Sel, Norway, integrating re-use principles while preserving cultural and historical heritage. The building’s environmental profile, especially energy-related aspects, will drive the design process.

The entire master's thesis will be available in the Norwegian Research Information Repository once it is ready.