Building retrofit planning: RIBA Plan of Work
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Building retrofit planning: RIBA Plan of Work

This guide outlines the actions and processes involved in a building decarbonisation retrofit project, aligning them with the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) Plan of Work.

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Provided by: Energy Systems Catapult

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Managing data Planning considerations Project and programme management Project risks, opportunities, constraints and dependencies Stakeholders Building decarbonisation and retrofit Non-domestic energy efficiency

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Net Zero Go says:

This guide explains how to plan and deliver building decarbonisation retrofit projects using the RIBA Plan of Work, adapted specifically for Net Zero outcomes in the public sector. It sets out each project stage from strategic definition through to use, showing what decisions, data, and governance are needed at each point. It also maps RIBA to PAS 2038, BSRIA, and the Treasury Green Book, helping teams align technical delivery with business cases and funding requirements.

For local authorities, the value is practical structure. It helps officers manage risk, plan funding bids, coordinate teams and contractors, and avoid common retrofit pitfalls. Using a shared framework improves clarity, supports Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) applications, and makes projects more repeatable across estates while keeping Net Zero goals central.

Building retrofit planning: RIBA Plan of Work

This guide outlines the actions and processes involved in a building decarbonisation retrofit project, aligning them with the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) Plan of Work.

It is aimed at public sector organisations and supply chain professionals involved in reducing carbon emissions across non-domestic buildings. The guide explains how retrofit projects can be systematically managed through defined project stages, and emphasises how retrofit is an iterative, non-linear process requiring flexibility, stakeholder collaboration, and ongoing review.

By aligning retrofit activities with the RIBA stages, the guide promotes consistent terminology, clearer communication, and improved project outcomes, providing a practical, adaptable tool for coordinating design, procurement, construction, and operation in pursuit of Net Zero goals.

Key elements of the guide

  • A staged delivery model based on the RIBA Plan of Work (Stages 0–7), from strategic definition through to in-use performance monitoring.
  • Focus on whole-building decarbonisation: energy efficiency, low-carbon heating, and renewable energy integration.
  • Emphasis on iterative design, flexibility, and continuous stakeholder engagement throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Clear distinction between organisation-wide decarbonisation strategy and individual retrofit project delivery, ensuring projects align with broader long-term carbon reduction goals.
  • Alignment with complementary frameworks (BSRIA, PAS 2038, HM Treasury Green Book) to support best practice delivery.
  • Importance of robust data, energy modelling, and measurement and verification to track performance and outcomes.
  • Integration of governance, funding, procurement, and risk management at each stage.
  • Strong focus on post-installation evaluation, user feedback, and long-term building performance optimisation to achieve Net Zero targets.

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