Researchers from TU Delft and AMS Institute highlight the urgent need to reduce heat demand in Amsterdam’s historic Centrum to support the city’s goal of a 95% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050. 

Although the Centrum is set to transition off natural gas last, their study suggests early action through retrofitting could cut 8% of the city’s total CO2 emissions. 

The research indicates significant benefits from insulating buildings and using advanced glazing, which can reduce space heating demand by up to 59%. 

Flexible permitting and targeted retrofitting, including improved insulation and ventilation, are key strategies for integrating heritage conservation with energy efficiency.

At the end of the year a new paper titled ‘Integrated Energy Planning for Historic City Centers in the Netherlands’ will be published.