Grid Integration of Zero Net Energy Communities in Multiple Climate Zones: Grid Impact and Cost Savings Analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to design a zero-energy home, which is known to be capable of balancing its own energy production and consumption close to zero. Development of low-energy homes and zero-net energy houses (ZEHs) is vital to move toward energy efficiency and sustainability in the built environment. To achieve zero or low energy targets in homes, it is essential to use the design process that minimizes the need for active mechanical systems. Design/methodology/approach The methodology discussed in this paper consists of an interfacing building information modeling (BIM) tool and a simulation software to determine the potential influence of phase change materials on designing zero-net energy homes. Findings BIM plays a key role in advancing methods for architects and designers to communicate through a common software platform, analyze energy performance through all stages of the design and construction process and make decisions for improving energy efficiency in the built environment. Originality/value This paper reviews the literature relevant to the role of BIM in helping energy simulation for the performance of residential homes to more advanced levels and in modeling the integrated design process of ZEHs.

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Feasibility of Achieving a Zero-Net-Energy, Zero-Net-Cost Homes

10.2172/982054 ◽

2009 ◽

Author(s):

S. Al-Beaini ◽

S. Borgeson ◽

B. Coffery ◽

D. Gregory ◽

K. Konis ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Net Energy ◽

Zero Net Energy

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Energy, exergy and economic assessments of the dual-mode evaporative cooler for various international climate zones

Building Services Engineering Research and Technology ◽

10.1177/01436244211044921 ◽

2021 ◽

pp. 014362442110449

Author(s):

Sarvesh Kashyap ◽

Jahar Sarkar ◽

Amitesh Kumar

Keyword(s):

Operating Cost ◽

Cost Savings ◽

Single Mode ◽

Climatic Conditions ◽

Coefficient Of Performance ◽

Dual Mode ◽

Climate Zones ◽

Operating Modes ◽

International Climate ◽

Evaporative Cooler

The conventional desert cooler is effective for dry seasons and the regenerative evaporative cooler (REC) is an effective device for humid seasons in composite climate zones. Hence, the dual-mode evaporative cooler (a two-in-one device) is an intelligent choice for air conditioning, which can operate in both direct and regenerative modes depending on the seasonal climatic condition. The exergy and economic analyses of this novel device for global climatic conditions are performed to check the suitability in different regions of the world. An experimental prototype of a dual-mode evaporative cooler is developed and tested to validate the simulation model. The effectiveness, coefficient of performance, exergy destruction, exergy efficiency, operating cost, and specific total cost (STC) are evaluated for both (direct and regenerative) modes of operation. The annual and month-wise performances of dual-mode evaporative cooler have been assessed for five cities of international climate zones. The operating cost of both modes is compared by considering electricity charges in different countries. The dual-mode device is compared with the single-mode device as well. The specific cost is similar for both modes in most of the ASHRAE climatic zones. The present study reveals that significant energy and cost savings are possible by using the dual-mode evaporative cooler. Practical application: This article considers the application of a dual-mode evaporative cooler (direct as well as regenerative mode) in different climate zones and, through investigating the exergy and economic performances, allows designers and operators to understand the potential benefits of employing various operating modes in particular climates.

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Whole Building to Zero Net Energy

Energy for Sustainability ◽

10.5822/978-1-61091-821-3_8 ◽

2018 ◽

pp. 249-283

Author(s):

John Randolph ◽

Gilbert M. Masters

Keyword(s):

Net Energy ◽

Zero Net Energy

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Review : Design Professional’s Guide to Zero Net Energy Buildings by Charles Eley

Journal of Planning Education and Research ◽

10.1177/0739456x18800204 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 40 (1) ◽

pp. 111-113

Author(s):

Christopher A. Manzo

Keyword(s):

Net Energy ◽

Zero Net Energy

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What If This Actually Works? Implementing California’s Zero Net Energy Goals

Energy Efficiency ◽

10.1016/b978-0-12-397879-0.00011-6 ◽

2013 ◽

pp. 275-303

Author(s):

Anna M. LaRue ◽

Noelle C. Cole ◽

Peter W. Turnbull

Keyword(s):

Net Energy ◽

Zero Net Energy

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Research on the Design and Construction of Zero-Energy Building

Applied Mechanics and Materials ◽

10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.587-589.224 ◽

2014 ◽

Vol 587-589 ◽

pp. 224-227

Author(s):

Zhi Jun Zhang

Keyword(s):

Energy Consumption ◽

Carbon Emissions ◽

Fossil Fuels ◽

Developed Countries ◽

Net Energy ◽

Zero Energy ◽

Zero Energy Building ◽

Net Zero ◽

Zero Net Energy ◽

Zero Energy Buildings

A zero-energy building, also known as a zero net energy (ZNE) building, net-zero energy building (NZEB), or net zero building, is a building with zero net energy consumption and zero carbon emissions annually. Buildings that produce a surplus of energy over the year may be called “energy-plus buildings” and buildings that consume slightly more energy than they produce are called “near-zero energy buildings” or “ultra-low energy houses”. Traditional buildings consume 40% of the total fossil fuel energy in the US and European Union and are significant contributors of greenhouse gases. The zero net energy consumption principle is viewed as a means to reduce carbon emissions and reduce dependence on fossil fuels and although zero energy buildings remain uncommon even in developed countries, they are gaining importance and popularity.

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