A two-step approach for cost-effective design analysis of Net Zero Energy Homes. (November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Hong Xian; Li, Yan; Zhang, Limao
• Is Part Of: Journal of building engineering. Volume 32(2021)
• Publication Date: 2020-11
• Subjects: Capital cost -- Net zero energy home (NZEH) -- Zero energy Building -- Energy simulation -- Energy monitoring; Building -- Periodicals; 690.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2020.101546
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-7102

Abstract

Abstract: Net Zero Energy Homes (NZEHs) have emerged as the solution to achieve sustainable house design. However, an NZEH entails higher capital cost compared with that of a conventional home, which comprises the main barrier for promoting NZEHs. In addressing this issue and promoting the cost-effective design of NZEHs, a two-step cost analysis framework with a mathematical model is proposed in this research: (1) qualified NZEH design scenarios are selected based on energy simulation, monitoring, and the acceptance as an NZEH in terms of energy balance; and (2) cost performance is analyzed for these qualified NZEH design scenarios, based on which the cost-effective design scenario is identified for an NZEH. Through the innovative two-step cost analysis with the optimization model, the cost-effective scenario is identified for NZEH design, while the identified design scenario also meets net-zero energy requirements. The proposed research framework with the mathematical model is demonstrated using an NZEH in Edmonton, Canada, as an example, and a capital cost savings of 4.2% is achieved by applying the proposed two-step approach in this research. This paper proposes a generic approach for the cost-effective design of NZEHs, and the research results contribute to the promotion of the NZEH application. Highlights: A two-step approach is proposed to identify cost-effective design of Net Zero Energy Homes. A generic framework of energy calibration and cost analysis is proposed. A capital cost saving of 4.2% is achieved by applying the proposed two-step approach. The proposed framework improves the cost effectiveness of Net Zero Energy Homes.