Energy transition and environmental sustainability in large commercial systems: a methodological approach

This study introduces a methodological approach to assess energy efficiency, savings, and environmental sustainability in large-scale food retail trade buildings. The aim is to support sustainable development, urban regeneration, and social well-being. The method begins with an analysis of building and commercial system data to identify representative prototype cases for experimental measurements and transient simulations. It involves on-site measurements to evaluate internal conditions, energy consumption, and human responses to these conditions. The approach establishes an interactive network among key elements, enabling a quantitative and systemic assessment of intervention potential and operational development for energy transition and environmental sustainability. As a result, it offers a knowledge, control, management, and planning framework for companies and managers. The findings highlight the potential for energy and resources savings and their associated benefits. The application of this approach underscores the importance of designing large-scale retail trade buildings that prioritize environmental considerations and resource management, including enhancing resilience and adaptability through digital tools such as Digital Twin and the Internet of Things.