Optimizing Energy Performance of Liverpool John Moores University Buildings through a Sustainable Architectural Approach

Sustainable architecture is no longer a luxury- it’s a necessity. As the UK pushes toward net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, the building sector must play a critical role in slashing energy use and cutting carbon emissions.

In line with these global sustainability goals, this project aimed to evaluate and improve the energy performance of three buildings at Liverpool John Moores University(LJMU). Each building, currently rated E in operational energy performance, was seen as a high-potential candidate for energy and carbon optimization through a sustainable design lens.

Project Overview

Location:

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) Campus, Liverpool, UK

Buildings Analyzed:

Lifecycle Assessment Period:

25 years

Simulation Tool:

DesignBuilder

Operational Energy Rating (DEC):

Grade E for all buildings

Energy Consultant:

Amirhossein Janzadeh

Project Objectives

Improve the thermal performance of existing structures
Reduce annual electricity and natural gas consumption
Cut yearly carbon dioxide emissions
Assess the economic viability of proposed upgrades over a 25-year lifecycle
Integrate renewable energy systems, particularly solar PV
Develop a scalable model for similar public and institutional buildings

The Role of DesignBuilder in Energy Analysis

DesignBuilder, one of the industry’s leading energy modeling tools, was instrumental in this project’s success. The team began by calibrating energy models for each building using actual consumption data from official DEC reports.

The software’s advanced simulation capabilities enabled in-depth analysis and testing of multiple upgrade scenarios, such as enhanced insulation, improved lighting systems, tighter building envelopes, and solar energy integration. DesignBuilder delivered rich data outputs, including:

Detailed energy consumption profiles by space and system
Thermal performance analysis of walls, roofs, and glazing
Accurate CO₂ emissions projections
Daylighting and lighting control simulations
Full lifecycle cost (LCC) analysis

By leveraging these capabilities, the team was able to blend various strategies effectively and deliver actionable, data-driven recommendations.

Sustainable Strategies Implemented

A series of targeted upgrades were applied across all three buildings, including:

Thermal Insulation: EPS for walls, XPS for roofs
Lighting Optimization: Installation of daylight sensors with linear dimming controls
Glazing Improvements: Low-e glass used in the third building to minimize heat transfer
Enhanced Airtightness: Air leakage reduced to 0.5 air changes per hour(ACH)
Behavioral Adjustments: Lowered heating setpoint from 22°C to 21°C in the Engineering Workshop

Solar Energy Deployment: Installation of SW100 RGB photovoltaic panels, optimized for each roof area

Quantitative Results

Implementing a comprehensive suite of energy optimization strategies resulted in a 57% reduction in energy consumption, a significant 64% cut in CO₂ emissions, a 5% improvement in lifecycle cost efficiency, an increased share of renewable energy use, and the creation of a scalable model for enhancing similar buildings.

Conclusion: A Smart, Scalable Move Toward Sustainability

This project demonstrates how data-driven design and smart architectural interventions can dramatically improve building performance- environmentally and economically. By using advanced modeling tools like DesignBuilder, the team delivered real, measurable improvements in energy use, carbon emissions, and operational costs.

Perhaps the most compelling outcome is the proof that even straightforward, carefully planned upgrades- when grounded in solid analysis- can create long-term, sustainable impact. This initiative offers a transferable model for academic institutions and public buildings striving for resilience, efficiency, and climate responsibility

For professional consulting on architectural energy optimization and sustainable project management, contact our team.