Mariana Cyrino: Energy-efficiency renovation initiatives and resident feedback surveys

There is currently a significant resurgence of interest in academic and professional circles in incorporating residents’ practical expertise and taking their lifestyles into account within project processes. This focus, which first emerged in the 1980s, has gained fresh momentum since the mid-2000s in light of the energy challenges posed by the ecological transition.

An assessment of efforts to promote energy-efficient renovation shows that there are significant discrepancies between projected energy efficiency and actual post-renovation figures. Taking into account the specific needs of residents and their practical expertise in energy-efficient renovation projects therefore appears to be essential. Whilst the concept of “user expertise” had already emerged during the 1990s, in recent years we have seen the emergence of a field known as User Control Assistance (UCA), driven by professionals from a wide range of backgrounds (architects, designers, sociologists, etc.) who offer services in this area or respond to requests from urban developers, or more specifically within the housing sector.

This thesis project aims to contribute to a better understanding of the growing interest in AMU practices among a wide range of operators and professionals. It will examine how this type of service is viewed by its proponents, as well as the outcomes it produces.