Stochastic comparative LCA of smart buildings

Driven by the energy and digital transitions, the concept of smart buildings is gaining importance. In most cases, these buildings are designed with the aim of reducing the consumption of energy resources during the operation phase, while improving the occupants’ comfort and safety. However, smart sensors and actuators themselves have impacts on other environmental indicators and life cycle stages. In this work, the environmental performances of a smart multifamily house and of a standard one are compared using both dynamic building energy simulations and life cycle assessments (LCA). Two insulation levels are possible for the building and the alternatives’ comparison includes uncertainties and variabilities related to occupancy. It turns out that smart building has less impacts than conventional one over their entire life cycle, but their benefit decreases when the level of insulation increases.