Analysis of factors and their hierarchical relationships influencing building energy performance using interpretive structural modelling (ISM) approach

The gap between the designed and measured building energy consumption is one of the biggest obstacles to the realization of energy conservation goal. The factor analysis method has been typically used in previous studies to explore the individual factors affecting building energy performance gap, while few studies examined the complex interrelationships among the influencing factors. In this research, the interpretive structural modelling approach was developed and applied to identify the key factors and explore the interrelationships among the factors affecting building energy performance gap. This paper first identified 47 factors by reviewing 276 relevant articles. Sixteen representative factors were further identified by interviewing 12 interviewees with 7–25 years’ practical experience on building energy management. Second, a six-level hierarchical structure was developed based on interpretive structural modelling to illustrate the intricate interrelationships among the representative factors. Third, “Matrice d’Impacts croises-multipication applique a classement” was applied to demonstrate the driving force and dependence power of the representative factors. Four clusters of factors were identified, namely dependent factors, driving factors, autonomous factors and linkage factors. Fifth and finally, 10 strategies were proposed to address these factors and their interrelationships. The findings of this research will help not only researchers in understanding the factors and their hierarchical structures affecting BEPG but also policymakers and practitioners in understanding the priority of allocating limited resources to address these factors and issues. •Sixteen representative factors affecting building energy performance are identified.•Hierarchical structure of the representative factors is developed.•Ten strategies are proposed to improve building energy performance.•Interpretive Structural Modelling method is developed and applied.