Application of the analytic hierarchy process(AHP)for energetic rehabilitation of historical buildings.

Is it possible to integrate energy saving technologies and renewable energy in today's society with respect to the cultural and architectural aspects of historical buildings using tools to aid decision-making on how to integrate new functions, materials and techniques? The aim of this paper is to analyze the link between utilization and conservation of monuments and describe a new approach for developing evaluation models of the potential sustainable energy rehabilitation of historical buildings. The experimental model is based on a multi-criteria approach--the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) which introduces the use of expert opinions, complementary skills and expertise from different disciplines in conjunction with quantitative traditional analysis. The main criteria used are: assess the impact of the proposed intervention in the light of international conventions on conservation (Restoration Charts); assess energy efficiency; assess environmental compatibility; and assess economic feasibility.