Improving energy-efficiency and indoor climate of livestock buildings through passive and active adaptation measures

Swedish livestock buildings cover a large area (ca 3000 ha) and have long operation hours leading to high annual energy use.

This project investigates energy use and indoor climate in livestock buildings considering both the actual and projected climate.

Since climate change is expected to generate a warmer and more humid climate, the future indoor climate conditions in livestock buildings needs to be studied.

Poor indoor climate leads to low animal welfare, reduced production, and reduced hygiene with higher risks for diseases.

A systemic analysis of heat-moisture balance and energy systems is performed in animal stables to identify elements in the building envelope, ventilation, and energy systems that contribute to lower energy use and good indoor climate.

The main anticipated result of this research is a PhD thesis demonstrating state-of-the-art construction, design and systems that ensure a very low energy use and excellent indoor climate for existing and new livestock buildings.