A novel BIM-to-UHI workflow for integrating UHI analysis as a key driver in BIM retrofit projects

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has become essential in energy-efficient retrofit projects, yet it often fails to account for urban microclimate effects, particularly the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon. This study introduces a novel BIM-to-UHI workflow that facilitates BIM designers to integrate UHI analysis into retrofit decision-making. By transforming BIM model data into inputs for the Urban Weather Generator (UWG) model, the workflow calculates neighbourhood-specific microclimate conditions. Its applicability as an evaluation tool is demonstrated through a case study with a two-phase implementation: quantifying UHI intensity (UHII) and assessing BIM retrofit designs as mitigation strategies. This implementation validates the approach, highlighting its potential to improve energy performance predictions and retrofit decision-making.