Exploring challenges and enablers for the implementation of energy-efficient retrofitting in buildings in Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

Buildings account for a substantial share of the global energy consumption and carbon emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), buildings contribute approximately 40% of energy consumption and 30% of carbon emissions globally. Energy-efficient retrofitting, the process of modifying existing buildings to improve energy performance, has emerged as a crucial measure for achieving sustainability in the built environment by preserving the embodied energy in existing structures and minimising demolition waste. While developed economies such as those in Europe, North America, and East Asia have led in implementing retrofit programs, Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Mauritius face a distinct set of challenges that complicate retrofitting implementation. The aim of this study was to identify the challenges specific to retrofitting projects in Mauritius while also exploring viable strategies for mitigating these barriers. A qualitative approach was adopted through semi-structured interviews with building industry experts to explore the contextual barriers and practical recommendations. The thematic analysis highlighted the following key challenges impacting retrofit projects: time delays caused by mandatory initial surveys, high costs due to the complexity of integrating new technologies, resource constraints in terms of specialized labour requirements and poor project management resulting in project inefficiencies. Interviewees however suggested several strategies for overcoming these challenges and they include utilising Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) to optimise energy-related aspects through performance-based schemes, addressing the skills gap through capacity building programmes, establishing guidelines and legal frameworks to standardise processes and improve project management of retrofit projects, improving stakeholder engagement through increased communication during whole project lifecycle and adopting phased retrofit strategies to better manage risks and minimize disruptions. The study has provided useful insights to clients, consultants and contractors for moving towards the implementation of more energy-efficient retrofitting projects in Mauritius and other countries with similar constraints.