Zero Energy Building Concept

MMBC

PRESENTED BY :
HARSHITHA P
1WS20AT007
 Introduction to Zero Energy Building Concept

• A zero energy building, also known as a net-zero energy building

• The primary goal is to achieve a net zero energy footprint, where the
building generates as much energy as it consumes over a specific
timeframe.
• In a general sense, these buildings consume less energy than a typical
traditional building as well as produce energy within the site that can
be duly utilized by the building itself.
• The goal of these buildings is making them energy efficient and
environmentally friendly.
• They are also characterized by zero carbon emissions.
• Zero energy buildings achieve this through a combination of energy-
saving measures and on-site renewable energy generation, such as solar
panels or wind turbines.
• This concept has gained significant attention in the construction industry
as a sustainable and innovative approach to building design and
operation.
Development of Concept of Zero Energy Building

• The concept of zero energy building began with the increased problems faced due to
various environmental issues such as climate change, global warming, pollution, and
ecosystem conservation.
• The concept of low energy building was put forward for the first time by German
scholar Wolfgang Feist and Swedish professor Bo Adamson of Lund University.
• Ultimately, in 1990, in Germany, the first energy-efficient building was constructed
which marked the beginning of the development of a new environmentally friendly
building construction technology i.e. Zero Energy Building.
• To conduct further research on this emerging concept and for its further advancement,
in Darmstadt Germany, the Passivhaus Institute was founded in the year 1996.
• Since then, the institute has been successful in constructing 15,000 of such buildings.
• The World Business Council for Sustainable Development has even undertaken a major
initiative regarding the development of zero energy building.
 Mechanism of Zero Energy Building

• As depicted in the figure, the mechanism of zero

energy building involves the transfer of energy to
and from the building such that the amount of
energy used and the amount of energy delivered
is equal.
• The energy needs of the building mostly include
lighting, electrical appliances, heating, cooling,
hot water, etc.
• To meet these energy needs, it produces or
generates energy utilizing several renewable
sources such as solar cells provided at the site.
• Several micro-generation techniques of energy
production are used such as:
• 1. Wind turbines
• 2. Solar cells
• 3. Biogas
• 4. Small scale hydro-power
 Principles of Zero Energy Building
1. Energy Efficiency Measures:
The core principle of zero energy buildings is maximizing energy
efficiency through advanced insulation, efficient appliances, and smart
design to minimize energy consumption.
2. Building Envelope: ZEBs prioritize a well-insulated
building envelope, which includes walls, roofs, and floors
with high-performance insulation materials to minimize heat
transfer.
1. Windows and Doors: Energy-efficient windows and doors
are crucial to prevent heat loss or gain. Double or triple
glazing, low-emissivity coatings, and insulated frames are
common features.
2. Lighting: Energy-efficient lighting, such as LED
technology, is incorporated, and daylighting strategies are
employed to reduce the need for artificial lighting during
daylight hours.
3. HVAC Systems: High-efficiency heating, ventilation, and
air conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential. Additionally,
smart controls and zoning help optimize energy usage based
on occupancy and external conditions.
 Principles of Zero Energy Building
2. Renewable Energy Integration:
These buildings integrate renewable energy sources such as solar panels, wind
turbines, or geothermal systems to meet their energy needs and achieve net-zero
status.
1. Solar Photovoltaics (PV): ZEBs often feature solar panels on
rooftops or integrated into building facades to capture sunlight
and convert it into electricity.
2. Wind Turbines: In locations with sufficient wind resources, wind
turbines may be utilized to generate electricity.
3. Geothermal Systems: Some ZEBs employ geothermal heat pumps
to harness the Earth's consistent temperature for heating and cooling.
3. Passive Design Strategies:
4. Orientation: Careful consideration of building orientation
maximizes solar gain in the winter and minimizes it in the summer.
5. Natural Ventilation: ZEBs leverage natural ventilation strategies to
reduce the reliance on mechanical systems, enhancing occupant
comfort and lowering energy consumption.
6. Daylighting: Strategic placement of windows and the use of
reflective surfaces optimize natural daylight, reducing the need for
artificial lighting.
 Principles of Zero Energy Building

4. Energy Storage Systems:

1. Battery Technology: Energy storage systems, typically
using advanced battery technologies, store excess energy
generated during peak production periods for use during
low-production periods or high demand.

5. Smart Building Management:

2. Building Automation Systems (BAS): ZEBs employ
sophisticated building management systems that monitor
and control various building functions in real-time. These
systems can automatically adjust lighting, HVAC, and
other systems based on occupancy and environmental
conditions.
Principles of Zero Energy Building
6. Occupant Engagement and Education:
1. Behavioral Aspects: ZEBs emphasize occupant
engagement, encouraging energy-conscious behavior and
practices to ensure optimal building performance.

7. Collaboration and Integrated Design:

2. Multidisciplinary Approach: Achieving ZEB status
requires collaboration among architects, engineers,
builders, and other stakeholders from the early stages of
design to ensure seamless integration of energy-efficient
measures.
 ADVANTAGES
 Sustainability : Zero energy buildings significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to
a healthier environment.
 Cost Savings : By generating renewable energy on-site, these buildings reduce energy bills and
operational costs over the long term.
 Reduction in the net monthly expense of living
 Higher resale value
 Increased comfort in living
 Better reliability
 Economical even in the long run
 Isolation from the future energy rate increase
 Environmentally compatible
 Lower emission of carbon
 Sustainable construction
DISADVANTAGES
 Higher initial investment
 Lack of expertise in such technology
 The requirement of newer relatively advanced technology
 Complexity of Design and Construction
 Site and Climate Limitations
THANK YOU