Abstract
This paper has as its main focus to define the drivers of retrofitting shopping centres. The drivers will provide the basis for developing energy retrofitting concepts, offering amongst other things, constructive technology, an understanding of typical functional patterns and socio-cultural aspects and an understanding of potentials associated with interaction with local energy grids. The primary focus of the study is energy use, but the fields of facilities, functions, management, ergonomics, safety and logistics are also studied, because sustainable shopping centres in addition to being energy efficient are commercially viable, accessible social arenas for all sections of society.