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1
Satola, Daniel, Martin Röck, Aoife Houlihan-Wiberg, and Arild Gustavsen. "Life Cycle GHG Emissions of Residential Buildings in Humid Subtropical and Tropical Climates: Systematic Review and Analysis." Buildings 11, no. 1 (December 24, 2020): 6. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/buildings11010006.
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Improving the environmental life cycle performance of buildings by focusing on the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions along the building life cycle is considered a crucial step in achieving global climate targets. This paper provides a systematic review and analysis of 75 residential case studies in humid subtropical and tropical climates. The study investigates GHG emissions across the building life cycle, i.e., it analyses both embodied and operational GHG emissions. Furthermore, the influence of various parameters, such as building location, typology, construction materials and energy performance, as well as methodological aspects are investigated. Through comparative analysis, the study identifies promising design strategies for reducing life cycle-related GHG emissions of buildings operating in subtropical and tropical climate zones. The results show that life cycle GHG emissions in the analysed studies are mostly dominated by operational emissions and are the highest for energy-intensive multi-family buildings. Buildings following low or net-zero energy performance targets show potential reductions of 50–80% for total life cycle GHG emissions, compared to buildings with conventional energy performance. Implementation of on-site photovoltaic (PV) systems provides the highest reduction potential for both operational and total life cycle GHG emissions, with potential reductions of 92% to 100% and 48% to 66%, respectively. Strategies related to increased use of timber and other bio-based materials present the highest potential for reduction of embodied GHG emissions, with reductions of 9% to 73%.
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Alghamdi, Abdulaziz, Guangji Hu, Husnain Haider, Kasun Hewage, and Rehan Sadiq. "Benchmarking of Water, Energy, and Carbon Flows in Academic Buildings: A Fuzzy Clustering Approach." Sustainability 12, no. 11 (May 29, 2020): 4422. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su12114422.
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In Canada, higher educational institutions (HEIs) are responsible for a significant portion of energy consumption and anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Improving the environmental performance of HEIs is an important step to achieve nationwide impact reduction. Academic buildings are among the largest infrastructure units in HEIs. Therefore, it is crucial to improve the environmental performance of academic buildings during their operations. Identifying critical academic buildings posing high impacts calls for methodologies that can holistically assess the environmental performance of buildings with respect to water and energy consumption, and GHG emission. This study proposes a fuzzy clustering approach to classify academic buildings in an HEI and benchmark their environmental performance in terms of water, energy, and carbon flows. To account for the fuzzy uncertainties in partitioning, the fuzzy c-means algorithm is employed to classify the buildings based on water, energy, and carbon flow indicators. The application of the developed methodology is demonstrated by a case study of 71 academic buildings in the University of British Columbia, Canada. The assessed buildings are grouped into three clusters representing different levels of performances with different degrees of membership. The environmental performance of each cluster is then benchmarked. Based on the results, the environmental performances of academic buildings are holistically determined, and the building clusters associated with low environmental performances are identified for potential improvements. The subsequent benchmark will allow HEIs to compare the impacts of academic building operations and set realistic targets for impact reduction.
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Sarevet, Henri, Jevgeni Fadejev, Martin Thalfeldt, and Jarek Kurnitski. "Residential buildings with heat pumps peak power reduction with high performance insulation." E3S Web of Conferences 172 (2020): 12008. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202017212008.
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Revised EPBD directive has set ambitious targets for nearly zero energy buildings. In residential buildings, energy performance can be improved mainly by applying better insulation of building fabric and by efficient energy sources, i.e. heat pumps. Electricity use and peak powers will increase when heat pumps, both air to water and ground source heat pumps, are used for heat source in new residential buildings compared to heating solutions that do not use electricity. The purpose of this study was to determine how much the high performance thermal insulation can compensate the increase of electricity use and peak power caused by extensive application of heat pumps in Finland residential buildings. The present study used five residential buildings that describe residential newbuild market. Finnish regulation defines minimum insulation level and high performance insulation level which were applied to single family houses, terraced house and apartment buildings to simulate electric power values all year round. Hourly electrical power values were simulated with dynamic simulation software IDA ICE. Results show that electricity use and peak powers are rising significantly when heat pumps are used, but better insulation level significantly decreases or even fully compensates the amount of additional electric power. The results can be used for the assesment of implications of extensive use of heat pumps to power grid.
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Ingeli, Rastislav, Katarína Minarovičová, and Miroslav Čekon. "Architectural Elements with Respect to the Energy Performance of Buildings." Advanced Materials Research 1020 (October 2014): 561–65. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.1020.561.
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Buildings account for 40% of the primary energy use and 24%of the generation of green house gases worldwide. Therefore, a reduction of the specific energy demand of buildings and increased use of renewable energy are important measures of climate change mitigation. On the 18th of May 2010 a recast of the EPBD was approved which further clarifies the intention that buildings shall have a low energy demand. The recast of the EPBD specifies that by the end of 2020 all new buildings shall be “nearly zero-energy buildings”. A nearly zero-energy building is defined as a building with a very high energy performance and very simple shape. The current focusing on the energy efficiency of the building operation may lead to uniform cuboid architecture with heavy insulated building envelopes. The paper deals with the influence of energy concept on architectural elements (and their properties as shape, material, colour, texture etc.)
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Wang, He, Yinqi Zhang, Weijun Gao, and Soichiro Kuroki. "Life Cycle Environmental and Cost Performance of Prefabricated Buildings." Sustainability 12, no. 7 (March 25, 2020): 2609. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su12072609.
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Global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the construction industry continue to increase at an annual rate of 1.5%. It is particularly important to understand the characteristics of the building life cycle to reduce its environmental impact. This paper aims to assess the environmental impact of prefabricated buildings and traditional cast-in-situ buildings over the building life cycle using a hybrid model. A case study of a building with a 40% assembly rate in Japan was employed for evaluation. It concluded that the total energy consumption, and carbon emissions of the prefabricated building was 7.54%, and 7.17%, respectively, less than that of the traditional cast-in-situ building throughout the whole life cycle. The carbon emissions reduction in the operation phase reached a peak of 4.05 kg CO2/year∙m2. The prefabricated building was found to cost less than the traditional cast-in-situ building, reducing the price per square meter by 10.62%. The prefabricated building has advantages in terms of reducing global warming, acid rain, and health damage by 15% reduction. With the addition of the assembly rate, the carbon emissions and cost dropped, bottoming out when the assembly rate was 60%. After that, an upward trend was shown with the assembly rate increasing. Additionally, this study outlined that the prefabricated pile foundations is not applicable due to its high construction cost and environmental impact.
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Wong, James Pow Chew. "Building energy performance assessment for existing commercial buildings with heritage values." MATEC Web of Conferences 277 (2019): 03018. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/matecconf/201927703018.
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The building sector accounts for 19% of Australia's energy consumption and around 23% of the greenhouse gas emissions. In 2005, commercial buildings in Australia were responsible for 10% or 26 megatonnes (Mt) of the nation's greenhouse gas emissions. They are two effective ways to reduce the building sector's emissions, namely constructing new energy efficient buildings or retrofitting existing buildings. Due to the life expectancy of existing building stock the greatest reduction in emissions before 2030 could be achieved through retrofits. Building performance assessment and evaluation uses predictive modelling method to investigate and evaluate building performance in energy demands, thermal occupant comfort, indoor air quality, building retrofit options and many other related environmental and wellbeing aspects. This paper discussed the use of building performance simulation software to investigate the impacts of various retrofit options have onto energy performance of existing commercial buildings with heritage values in Australia. The research explores the use of thermal and airflow modelling in assisting understanding of building energy performance with various retrofit options applied to existing commercial buildings. The finding highlights the capabilities of building performance simulation software in decision making for building performance investigations.
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Yimprayoon, C. "PM2.5 reduction performance of LEED certified buildings in Thailand." IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science 588 (November 21, 2020): 042008. http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/588/4/042008.
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Draper, Phil. "350 Euston Road: Improving building performances and carbon footprint with innovative heating, ventilation and air conditioning solutions – A case study." Building Services Engineering Research and Technology 38, no. 6 (October 8, 2017): 650–62. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0143624417735228.
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This case study paper describes the advantages of how heat pumps with heat recovery worked to contribute to improving energy performance and reducing the carbon footprint of buildings, with a short payback, thus showing it is a viable technology for energy cost reduction and for improving the environmental impact of buildings within the UK. All actions were taken based on performance for both the current and the future expected needs of the building and are measured against a baseline. The research and results confirm that heat pumps with heat recovery are a viable solution for London office buildings offering an integrated approach to building heating and cooling. The project resulted in a final reduction of 62% on the base building controlled utilities (total building less occupier power). The added benefits will be around the carbon benefits that the resultant 86% reduction in gas will bring due to the gradual de-carbonisation of the electric energy production in the UK. Practical application: This paper illustrates how to utilise an existing building’s energy use data to determine how relatively simple technology can optimise the provision of simultaneous heating and cooling for comfort. It also details how modelled data can be used to allow the correct sizing of equipment to deliver both good internal comfort and low carbon emissions.
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Yousefi, Yasin, Petra Gratton, and Dilshad Sarwar. "Investigating the Opportunities to Improve the Thermal Performance of a Case Study Building in London." International Journal of Strategic Engineering 4, no. 1 (January 2021): 1–18. http://dx.doi.org/10.4018/ijose.2021010101.
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This study was carried out to investigate the opportunities of improving thermal performance by focusing on envelope effects of a building located in London. Firstly, through a broad literature review of the previous conducted case studies, an investigation of all the building envelope aspects and parameters influencing the thermal performance of the building was conducted to provide critical information of thermal performance of the envelope components within the UK buildings. Then, onsite measurements were carried out to obtain the building's base case heating load using the standard CIBSE GUIDE A 2017 heat load calculation methodology. Neglecting thermal bridging in the heating calculation showed 8% reduction in the building's total heating load. Also, 17% reduction in energy consumption and CO2 emissions was achieved by applying polyurethane-foam and polystyrene-boards as cavity and external wall insulations, respectively. Moreover, the effect of applying both insulation in the energy consumption, CO2 emissions, cost and payback period analysis was analysed.
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Jarošová, Petra, and Jiří Vala. "New Approaches to the Thermal Design of Energy Saving Buildings." Advanced Materials Research 1126 (October 2015): 59–66. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.1126.59.
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European directive on energy performance of buildings (2010) and related national technical rules force reduction of energy consumption of both new and reconstructed buildings due to the so-called passive standard. Consequently the thermal design of such buildings, utilizing advanced materials, structures and technologies, requires proper analysis of relevant physical processes, unlike classical evaluations of thermal resistance from one-dimensional stationary heat conduction. The paper demonstrates a possibility of compromise between complicated multi-physical models and realistic thermal estimation of buildings, as well as some optimization procedures in building design leading to energy reduction.
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Atkins, Richard, and Rohinton Emmanuel. "Could refurbishment of “traditional” buildings reduce carbon emissions?" Built Environment Project and Asset Management 4, no. 3 (July 7, 2014): 221–37. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/bepam-08-2013-0030.
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Purpose – Evaluate the post occupancy performance of a typical “traditional” building using multiple post occupancy evaluation (PoE) protocols against design intents to learn lessons about their suitability in meeting UK's climate change reduction targets. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – PoE studies of a single case study, Norton Park, using three PoE methodologies. Gaps and overlaps between the PoE protocols are assessed and their role in improving energy and carbon emission performance of traditional buildings is explored. Findings – Refurbishment of the type undertaken in this case study could halve the energy use in traditional buildings with comparable savings in CO2 emission. Research limitations/implications – Traditional buildings could positively contribute to achieving climate change reduction targets; regular feedback loops improve performance over time. Practical implications – Quantification of the likely national benefit of focusing retrofit actions on traditional buildings is explored. Originality/value – The research study demonstrates that very high levels of energy saving can be achieved when traditional buildings are refurbished. In addition on-going monitoring and PoE studies highlight opportunities to optimise the performance of traditional buildings.
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Ciampoli, Marcello, and Francesco Petrini. "Performance-based Aeolian risk assessment and reduction for tall buildings." Probabilistic Engineering Mechanics 28 (April 2012): 75–84. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.probengmech.2011.08.013.
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Shibeika, Amna, Maatouk Khoukhi, Omar Al Khatib, Nouf Alzahmi, Shamma Tahnoon, Maryam Al Dhahri, and Nouf Alshamsi. "Integrated Design Process for High-Performance Buildings; a Case Study from Dubai." Sustainability 13, no. 15 (July 30, 2021): 8529. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su13158529.
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Due to the scarcity of water and the harsh desert climate of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), water and energy are two of the main challenges for the design of sustainable buildings in the UAE. Relevant literature calls for the consideration of building systems and materials at the design stage to achieve high-performing buildings and to save on the operational costs of the building. The aim of this research was to design a high-performance building that meets the environmental sustainability requirements for water and energy, in the city of Dubai to reflect the technological advancements of the UAE Mars mission. This has been achieved through following an integrated design process, which was mainly focused on the evaluation and specification of the building engineering systems based on performance, besides the goal of achieving visually appealing building with advanced structural design. The performance verification of the final building design, which considered engineering systems design from conception and through the design and detailed design stages, revealed a 15% reduction in water consumption and a 60% reduction in energy consumption. This provides a valuable contribution to architectural engineering practice, by demonstrating a case study for enhancing energy and water efficiency via building design, which consequently contributes to the environmental sustainability of the built environment.
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Gaitov, Rashid, Serik Tokbolat, Hua Zhong, and Mohamad Mustafa. "Investigation of the impacts of design parameters on thermal performance of buildings in cold climate." E3S Web of Conferences 246 (2021): 07002. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202124607002.
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While design optimization of buildings seeks to improve energy efficiency and, thus, leads to greenhouse gas emissions reduction, the thermal performance of buildings can be compromised. Thermal performance is an important aspect as it directly affects the health and well-being of occupants. This study aims to investigate using a simple simulation tool to examine the correlation between a set of building physical design parameters such as orientation, shading and shape, optimization of which helps to make a positive impact on the thermal performance of the building in a cold climate zone. The thermal performance simulation tool Passive Design Assistant (PDA) was used to build a simulation model and test the interdependence between the design parameters and thermal performance. The results indicate that modifications of building’s parameters such as orientation and shape or the addition of shadings lead to improvements of the internal thermal temperature, heat gain and loss, hence the optimal parameters should prevail. A case study for cold climate is analyzed, in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, the optimal orientation for the squared building is 30° from East to South (building rotated 120°) and the optimal building’s shape is rectangular, which attracts up to 2.6 times higher solar gains than the square one. Moreover, the use of shadings can regulate the internal temperature of the building by 2 °C. General recommendations based on the findings are made and could be considered in the earlier stage of building design and construction processes.
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Gong, Xin Zhi, Yasunori Akashi, and Daisuke Sumiyoshi. "Energy Performance of SOFC Cogeneration System for Residential Buildings in Chinese Cold Areas." Advanced Materials Research 935 (May 2014): 48–51. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.935.48.
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Primary energy reduction and energy efficiency improvement are important targets to be achieved in every society and in residential buildings in particular. An energy-efficient and low-emissions solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) cogeneration system is a promising electric and thermal energy generation technology for implementation in future residential buildings. This paper aims to analyze the energy performance in terms of primary energy demand and its reduction rate when SOFC cogeneration system is used in residential buildings. This study outlines SOFC cogeneration system and its simulation method, and then develops a standard family model for simulation under cold weather condition in China and selected Beijing city as an example, and finally compares them with traditional power and heat generation system based on gas and electricity. The results show that SOFC cogeneration system is an energy-efficient alternative power and thermal energy cogeneration technology for cold climatic cities such as Beijing, and can offer a large reduction rate (about 15.8% in winter) of primary energy demand in residential buildings. This study also finds that the significant reductions in primary energy demand of SOFC system result for the periods with air temperature decreasing.
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Stamenkovic, Marija, Mirjana Miletic, Saja Kosanovic, Goran Vuckovic, and Srdjan Glisovic. "Impact of a building shape factor on space cooling energy performance in the green roof concept implementation." Thermal Science 22, no. 1 Part B (2018): 687–98. http://dx.doi.org/10.2298/tsci170425205s.
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The reduction of energy demand for space cooling requires adequate solutions at building and built environment scales in order to achieve sustainability goals. Since many existing buildings have inadequate envelopes for reducing heat gains in summer and heat losses in winter, environmentally friendly renovation techniques have to be considered. The roofs of existing buildings were identified as a field of intervention which could contribute to providing both energy savings and environmental benefits. The aim of the paper was to evaluate the contribution of green roofs to energy savings for space cooling depending on the building shape factor. Two groups of building models, with vertical and horizontal expansions, were analysed. The comparative analyses of the building models with conventional and green roofs showed small reduction of energy consumption less than 1% in case of well-insulated roofs with the addition of the extensive green roof. The comparison of different building models with green roofs of the same volume, which is in this case the same cooling area, indicated a more effective solution for green roofs implementation with the aim to improve energy performances of existing buildings using this passive design technique.
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Kelly, Trevor E. "Improving seismic performance." Bulletin of the New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering 41, no. 1 (March 31, 2008): 24–30. http://dx.doi.org/10.5459/bnzsee.41.1.24-30.
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Structural engineers typically improve the seismic performance of deficient structures by adding strengthening elements to the structural system, which also add stiffness to the structure. However, as performance based design becomes more common practice, the focus is on the total performance of not only the structural system but the building components and contents. A stiffer and stronger building will generally be subjected to lower drifts but higher floor accelerations than a weaker and/or more flexible building. Reduced drift related damage may be accompanied by increased damage to components and contents which are sensitive to accelerations.
This paper examines two common forms of hardware used to strengthen existing buildings, buckling restrained braces (BRB) and viscous damping devices (VDD). Both types of device augment the existing structural system, rather than replace it. A series of nonlinear analyses is used to quantify the performance of two prototype frame buildings strengthened with each type of device. It is shown that equivalent structural performance, in terms of overall deformations, can be achieved with both types of device, and generally for lower cost by BRBs if only moderate levels of drift reduction are required. However, when the total building performance is examined the VDDs provide additional benefits in the form of reduced floor accelerations. The benefits of this may besufficient to warrant the higher cost solution.
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De Luca, Francesco, Hendrik Voll, and Martin Thalfeldt. "Comparison of static and dynamic shading systems for office building energy consumption and cooling load assessment." Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal 29, no. 5 (August 13, 2018): 978–98. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/meq-01-2018-0008.
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PurposeExterior shading devices and dynamic shading systems constitute an efficient way to improve energy efficiency and occupants’ comfort in buildings through the reduction of direct solar heat gains and disturbing glare. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the performance of different types of shading systems, fixed and dynamic, and their influence on the energy consumption and cooling loads for an office building located in Tallinn, Estonia. The scope is to determine the most performative configuration for energy consumption and cooling load reduction for office buildings and to provide designers and developers with the necessary knowledge to increase the performance of their buildings.Design/methodology/approachThere are many types of fixed shading devices, most of which use rectangular planar elements, the orientation and layout of which depends on the building location and façade orientation. The dynamic shading systems vary on the base of the building occupancy schedules and occupants’ preferences. The paper presents a method to determine the most efficient type and size of fixed shading devices in relation to different windows’ size and orientation, and the quantity of windows panes. At the same time the dynamic shading system using a control algorithm developed by the authors is compared.FindingsThe results show that solar shading is an efficient way to control the energy consumption of office buildings, though with different efficacy by the static systems depending on orientation, window and shading type. Evidence shows that dynamic blind systems have more uniform performance and usually outperform static shading.Originality/valueThe paper compares the performances of different static and dynamic shading devices and systems for the location in Tallinn. The dynamic shading system tested uses a control algorithm developed by the authors. The indications for the energy reduction and cooling loads are a valuable resource for designers and developers to increase the energy efficiency of their buildings.
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Dobosi, Ioan Silviu, Cristina Tanasa, Nicoleta-Elena Kaba, Adrian Retezan, and Dragos Mihaila. "Building energy modelling for the energy performance analysis of a hospital building in various locations." E3S Web of Conferences 111 (2019): 06073. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/201911106073.
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The building sector has been identified as having the greatest energy reduction potential and therefore represents a key factor for the European Union climate change combat objectives of achieving an 80-95% greenhouse gas emissions reduction by 2050. Hospitals buildings represent 7% of the nonresidential building stock in the European Union and are responsible for approximately 10% of the total energy consumption in this sector. The design and construction of hospital buildings is a complex and challenging activity for all the involved specialists, especially when energy performance is one of the objectives. This paper discusses the energy performance simulation on an hourly basis of a new hospital building that was constructed in the city of Mioveni, Romania. At this stage of the study, the building energy model solely investigates the performance of the building envelope, without modelling the HVAC system. The complexity of the building model derives from the multitude of thermal zones depending on interior temperature and ventilation air changes conditions. Several simulations are performed investigating the heating and cooling energy need depending on the building location.
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Motawa, Ibrahim, Asser Elsheikh, and Esraa Diab. "Energy Performance Analysis of Building Envelopes." Journal of Engineering, Project, and Production Management 11, no. 3 (May 21, 2021): 196–206. http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/jeppm-2021-0019.
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Abstract The building sector has a high level of energy consumption caused mainly by the buildings heating and cooling energy demands to satisfy indoor comfort requirements. Reducing both the amount of energy consumed and the life cycle cost is a main challenge for the construction of buildings. It is evident that sustainable materials have low environmental impacts and need low consumption of energetic resources in addition to their durability and recyclability. Therefore, this research aims to test different sustainable materials available in Egypt for the construction of building envelopes that include local stones “Marble and Limestone” and insulation materials “Polyurethane- expanded and Extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam” in order to achieve savings in energy and total life cycle cost. The simulation tests were conducted through Design Builder software. The results aim to provide solutions for building designers to achieve energy-efficiency and costeffective design. The proposed alternatives showed a significant reduction in energy consumption by up to 62% and the total life cycle costs significantly reduced by up to 45.8%.
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Foster, Janice A., Anna Poston, and Samuel A. Foster. "Building Performance Evaluation – A Design Approach for Refurbishment of a Small Traditional Building in Scotland." Restoration of Buildings and Monuments 23, no. 2 (May 27, 2019): 53–66. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/rbm-2017-0008.
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Abstract In recent years, thermal performance improvements have been applied to an increasing number of historic buildings towards the achievement of the legally binding Scottish carbon dioxide (CO2) emission reductions. Over 20 % of the built environment in Scotland was constructed pre 1919 and the targeting of fabric improvements in these buildings can pose a performance risk if inappropriate measures are applied. This paper discusses through a case study a Building Performance Evaluation (BPE) approach used in conjunction with the design process for refurbishment of a community owned historic building, located in Arisaig, Scotland. The community received funding to improve the energy performance of this nineteenth century stone building and committed to a 75 % reduction in CO2 emissions. BPE was conducted in 2014 as part of the design process and repeated post-refurbishment in 2015 to validate the design. The initial BPE identified high heat losses, inefficient heating and lighting systems that resulted in occupant discomfort, high running costs and consequently the loss of a community facility during the winter months. The resulting BPE quantified improvements to the building fabric, occupant comfort and reduced energy consumption, which advocated this design approach as a beneficial tool for informing historic building refurbishment.
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Marotta, Ilaria, Francesco Guarino, Maurizio Cellura, and Sonia Longo. "Energy flexibility in Mediterranean buildings: a case-study in Sicily." E3S Web of Conferences 197 (2020): 02002. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202019702002.
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Since the building sector is responsible for 40% of the world’s electricity demand, it is essential to act on it in order to reduce emissions of climate change gases on a global scale, as expressed also in the latest directive on the energy performance of buildings. A design approach that focuses on the energy flexibility of buildings can contribute to the improvement of its energy-environmental performances. In this context, the objective of the study is the analysis of the energy performance of a residential building in Sicily and the definition of strategies aimed at increasing its energy flexibility. In particular, the case study is a 631 m2 single-family house, modeled and simulated in TRNSYS environment. The approach involves the development of scenarios to reduce operating costs and CO2 emissions during the use phase of the building. Rule Based Control algorithms are implemented. The flexible control reacts to a price or emission signal, by modulating the heating set-point accordingly. The results highlighted significant increases in energy flexibility. The economic algorithm achieves savings of 21.46%, accompanied by a 15% reduction in emissions. The environmental algorithm allows to reduce CO2 emissions by about 30%. The economic impact is positive, with a 17.58% reduction in costs.
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Ingeli, Rastislav, and Peter Buday. "Analysis of the Impact of the Fireplace Heating on the Energy Performance of the Family House." Periodica Polytechnica Mechanical Engineering 64, no. 2 (March 13, 2020): 145–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.3311/ppme.14979.
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Reduction of energy use in buildings is an important measure to achieve climate changes of mitigation. It is essential to minimize heat losses when designing energy efficient buildings. For energy efficient building in a cold climate, a large part of the space heating demand is caused by transmission losses through the building envelope. In compliance with the today's trend of designing sustainable and energy-saving architecture, it is necessary firstly to solve the factors influencing the energy balance. This year the subsidy for houses has been valued at € 8,000. The condition is that the building is classified in the energy class A0 according to the Energy Performance Act. Energy class A0 characterizes nearly zero energy buildings. The main concern is for the public to become interested in such buildings. The subsidy is designed to reward and promote those buildings that their heat and technical characteristics and modern technical equipment that meet energy class. In addition to a good plan to raise the profile of such buildings, there has been a lot of speculation to help make buildings in energy class A0. They are mainly owners of family houses where there is no gasification and are forced to have electricity as a source of heat and hot water. Electricity has a high primary energy factor, which means that buildings do not have to be approved.
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BAICEANU, Mihai, and Tiberiu CATALINA. "Parametric simulation study for green roof retrofit over high performance solar house prototype “EFdeN Signature”." E3S Web of Conferences 111 (2019): 04012. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/201911104012.
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The advantages of green roofs are well documented, ranging from heat island reduction, thermal comfort, air quality, stormwater management and energy savings for buildings. However, it has been shown that green roof retrofits are more effective in old, low efficiency buildings. This paper studies the possibility of retrofitting a high efficiency solar house with a green roof system being partially shaded, optimising its characteristics by means of parametric simulation. The input variables of the green roof system are: growth medium thickness, LAI (leaf area index) and height of plants. The output variables by which the different green roof systems are compared are: annual energy demand for heating and for cooling. The study concluded that the average reductions of energy consumption when retrofitting an efficient building with an extensive green roof are of 1.01% for heating and 4.61% for cooling, but optimising parameters (low LAI in winter, high LAI and height of plants in summer) can get reductions to 1.55% for cooling and 5.95% for cooling.
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Jalil, Nurul Amira Abd, Nazli Bin Che Din, and Nila Inangda Manyam Keumala Daud. "A Literature Analysis on Acoustical Environment in Green Building Design Strategies." Applied Mechanics and Materials 471 (December 2013): 138–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.471.138.
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Acoustic quality is important in ensuring a healthy and workable working environment. One of green buildings main objective is to reduce the building impact on human health and performance. This was emphasized in most green building rating system under its requirement for Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). IEQ highlights the four main points for achieving an improved indoor environment: indoor air quality, acoustics, visual comfort (lighting) and thermal comfort. Although acoustics was mentioned in the IEQ criteria, according to previous surveys and studies; acoustics quality in green buildings were not improving. It seems as though in order to improve on other green building criteria, acoustics performance is bound to become poorer. Through review of previous literature, survey and studies on acoustical performance in green buildings, the objective of this paper is to identify how green building design strategies contribute to the degradation of acoustical environment in green office buildings. Findings shows that design strategies implemented to cater for other green building requirements such as natural ventilation, daylight, reduction of finishes and office layout have unintentionally decrease the acoustical quality.
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Padilla-Rivera, Alejandro, Ben Amor, and Pierre Blanchet. "Evaluating the Link between Low Carbon Reductions Strategies and Its Performance in the Context of Climate Change: A Carbon Footprint of a Wood-Frame Residential Building in Quebec, Canada." Sustainability 10, no. 8 (August 2, 2018): 2715. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su10082715.
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The design and study of low carbon buildings is a major concern in a modern economy due to high carbon emissions produced by buildings and its effects on climate change. Studies have investigated (CFP) Carbon Footprint of buildings, but there remains a need for a strong analysis that measure and quantify the overall degree of GHG emissions reductions and its relationship with the effect on climate change mitigation. This study evaluates the potential of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the building sector by evaluating the (CFP) of four hotpots approaches defined in line with commonly carbon reduction strategies, also known as mitigation strategies. CFP framework is applied to compare the (CC) climate change impact of mitigation strategies. A multi-story timber residential construction in Quebec City (Canada) was chosen as a baseline scenario. This building has been designed with the idea of being a reference of sustainable development application in the building sector. In this scenario, the production of materials and construction (assembly, waste management and transportation) were evaluated. A CFP that covers eight actions divided in four low carbon strategies, including: low carbon materials, material minimization, reuse and recycle materials and adoption of local sources and use of biofuels were evaluated. The results of this study shows that the used of prefabricated technique in buildings is an alternative to reduce the CFP of buildings in the context of Quebec. The CC decreases per m2 floor area in baseline scenario is up to 25% than current buildings. If the benefits of low carbon strategies are included, the timber structures can generate 38% lower CC than the original baseline scenario. The investigation recommends that CO2eq emissions reduction in the design and implementation of residential constructions as climate change mitigation is perfectly feasible by following different working strategies. It is concluded that if the four strategies were implemented in current buildings they would have environmental benefits by reducing its CFP. The reuse wood wastes into production of particleboard has the greatest environmental benefit due to temporary carbon storage.
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Zhang, T. T., and P. Mukhopadhyaya. "Thermal transmittance reduction through exposed balcony slabs." International Review of Applied Sciences and Engineering 8, no. 1 (June 2017): 75–81. http://dx.doi.org/10.1556/1848.2017.8.1.11.
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Thermal bridging caused by exposed concrete balcony slab is a major source of heat loss through energy efficient building envelopes. Moreover, thermal bridging can also create moisture management and indoor comfort challenges. Numerous investigations have been carried out to reduce heat transmittance through exterior building envelopes and minimize the energy use in buildings. The most effective way to minimize heat transmittance of exposed concrete balcony slabs is to thermally separate the exterior structure from the interior structure using thermal breaks. To enhance thermal separation, this paper investigates the effects of replacing high conductive materials such as reinforced concrete or structural steel with a multilayer composition of high-performance hybrid insulating systems. Reinforcing bars, such as fiber reinforced plastics (FRPs), having lower thermal conductivity than steel are used to connect interior to exterior and transfer loads. Numerical simulation tool THERM is used to study the effects of thermal breaks on energy performance of the concrete slab balcony joints. Simulation results indicate significant thermal performance improvement while high-performance hybrid insulating systems were used for exposed concrete balcony slab constructions, compared to traditional insulating systems used in similar constructions
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Corten, Kai, Eric Willems, Shalika Walker, and Wim Zeiler. "Energy performance optimization of buildings using data mining techniques." E3S Web of Conferences 111 (2019): 05016. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/201911105016.
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The operational energy consumption of buildings often does not match with the predicted results from the design. One of the most dominant causes for these so-called energy performance gaps is the poor operational practice of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. To improve underperforming HVAC systems, analysis of operational data collected by the building management system (BMS) can provide valuable information. In order to completely use and interpret operational data, the building sector is urging for methods and tools. Data mining (DM) is identified as an emerging powerful technique with great potential for discovering hidden knowledge in large data sets. In this study, the performance of HVAC systems was analysed using regression analysis as DM technique. This leads to valuable insights to control and improve the building energy performance. The results show that a reduction of 7-13% on the heating demand and 41-70% on the cooling demand can be obtained.
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Gercek, Cihan, Mirjana Devetaković, Aleksandra Krstić-Furundžić, and Angèle Reinders. "Energy Balance, Cost and Architectural Design Features of 24 Building Integrated Photovoltaic Projects Using a Modelling Approach." Applied Sciences 10, no. 24 (December 10, 2020): 8860. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/app10248860.
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This paper presents the energy balance, architectural design features and cost aspects of 24 building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) projects in three different contexts, namely BIPV in residential, office and historical buildings. These BIPV projects have been modelled and evaluated for different geographic locations because the European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (2018/844/EU) has resulted in country-specific regulations and situations aimed towards the reduction in energy consumption, and hence the CO2 emissions of built environments. Moreover, the geographical variation of irradiation affects the performance of different BIPV projects on different locations. The results of our study show that the return of investment of BIPV projects across 12 countries took (on average) 13.3 years. Furthermore, the residential projects —as compared to non-residential buildings—were mostly energy plus buildings with an average self-sufficiency of 110% due to their low energy consumption. In conclusion, most BIPV projects resulted in realistic energy performances (on average: 761 kWh/kWp.year), low payback times (10 years for residential and office buildings), and modelled unique design features.
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Harmathy, Norbert. "Investigation of decarbonization potential in green building design to accelerate the utilization of renewable energy sources." Thermal Science, no. 00 (2020): 195. http://dx.doi.org/10.2298/tsci200324195h.
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The construction sector as one of the highest carbon emitters in the World has an international initiative for Green House Gas reduction. Green building certifications demonstrate performance, efficiency and economy in the constuction sector. The motivation of the research was to investigate whether Green certified buildings which fulfill the minimum energy standards do demonstrate high energy performance compared to energy efficient buildings and renewable systems. The hypothesis was to investigate that renewable energy source application could contribute to higher performance, against a typical efficient HVAC system (usually applied in commercial buildings) and a building aiming for Green certification, concerning mandatory energy efficiency requirement. The research scope was to investigate and evaluate various HVAC solutions using triple-criteria evaluation method for decarbonization: energy performance, carbon footprint and operation cost to formulate systematic solutions in the design phase of projects for wide audience with preferable and applicable results.
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Ekström, Tomas, Stephen Burke, Lars-Erik Harderup, and Jesper Arfvidsson. "Proposed method for probabilistic risk analysis using building performance simulations and stochastic parameters." E3S Web of Conferences 172 (2020): 25005. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202017225005.
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As parts of the world continue the work of mitigating the impact of climate change, many countries strive for continued reductions in energy demand from buildings by implementing more stringent building regulations. Consequently, the importance of accurate and efficient building performance simulations to predict the energy use of a building design increases. As observed in earlier studies, there are performance gaps between the predicted annual energy demand from building energy performance simulations based on deterministic methods compared to the monitored annual energy use of a building. This paper presents a preliminary method developed using probabilistic methods for risk analysis and building performance simulations to predict the energy performance of buildings using stochastic parameters. The method is used to calculate the probability for the energy performance of a building design to fulfil the energy requirements. The consequences are quantified using an example of energy performance contracting to evaluate the inherent risk of a building’s design. The method was demonstrated in a case study and validated by comparing the results in energy performance and probability of failure against measured data from 26 single-family houses.
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Turley, Martin, and Sarah Sayce. "Energy performance certificates in the context of sustainability and the impact on valuations." Journal of Property Investment & Finance 33, no. 5 (August 3, 2015): 446–55. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jpif-05-2015-0035.
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Purpose – The Government of UK is committed to reducing Green House Gas emissions by 80 per cent based on the 1990 levels, by 2050. In order to achieve this reduction, the UK Government, along with their European counterparts, have implemented various directives and incentives, which progressively and incrementally are intended to move them towards this target. One such directive is the European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, which sets the policy for achievement. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – This paper seeks to examine the complexities of these changes when considered against the real world use and operation of buildings, most particularly at lease end. It explores the inter-relationship of landlord and tenant at lease expiry and renewal. Findings – It argues that the Energy Act regulations might have significant impact on the actions of landlords and tenants; both in advance of and shortly after the lease is determined. Practical implications – One of the key mechanisms contained within this directive for the reduction in emissions is the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). An EPC must be produced where a building is being constructed, rented or sold. EPCs rate buildings on their asset energy performance and in conjunction with building regulations are becoming increasingly more stringent to achieve targets. Regulations under the Energy Act 2011, due to take effect from April 2018, will mean that it will be unlawful to let or re-let a building which fails to reach minimum energy performances standards, currently defined as an E rating; further it is intended that the regulations will extend to all lettings from 2023. Originality/value – This paper looks at the inter-relationship of landlord and tenant at lease expiry and renewal with the proposed directives on EPCs.
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José, Ruá María, Huedo Patricia, Cabeza Manuel, Saez Beatriz, and Civera Vicente. "Energy Rehabilitation of Social Housing in Vulnerable Areas. Case study: a 1950s Building in a Medium-sized Mediterranean City." International Journal of Environmental Science & Sustainable Development 4, no. 1 (March 30, 2019): 44. http://dx.doi.org/10.21625/essd.v4i1.490.
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In the urban context, buildings play a key role as they are energy consumers. In well-established cities with a high percentage of aged building stock, the focus should lie on sensitive urban areas where the weakest population sectors and the worst physico-economic conditions are usually encountered. In this work, the energy refurbishment of social housing is proposed. A block of municipally owned buildings is selected as a case study to consider that public buildings play an exemplary role according to Directive 2012/27/EU. The group is formed by 12 buildings, which account for 120 dwellings.This study is grounded on two levels. First the urban level. The building is located in a prioritised urban Area of Rehabilitation, Renovation and Urban Regeneration (ARRU), according to the new local Land Plan. This area presents multidimensional vulnerability and considers urban, building, socio-demographic and socio-economic features. Second, the building presents very low energy performance. It was built in 1959 when a high demand of dwellings and the economic resources then available led to low-quality buildings that are far from meeting today’s standards.Some proposals are made, having in mind the specific features of the urban context. The energy refurbishment of the building is proposed, selecting the optimal solution, considering technical, environmental and economic criteria. The energy performance simulation shows a remarkable improvement of the energy performance, resulting in an improvement of the thermal comfort of the dwellers. Besides, a reduction in the energy consumption is reached, which would reduce the energy bills and, on the other hand, a reduction of the carbon emissions to the atmosphere, contributing to a better environment quality. Having in mind that the building is intended for social housing, energy poverty situations could be avoided, as dwellings are inhabited by low-income dwellers.
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Rock, Stephanie, M. Reza Hosseini, Bahareh Nikmehr, Igor Martek, Sepehr Abrishami, and Serdar Durdyev. "Barriers to “green operation” of commercial office buildings." Facilities 37, no. 13/14 (October 7, 2019): 1048–65. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/f-08-2018-0101.
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Purpose The built environment is a major source of carbon emissions. However, 80 per cent of the damage arises through the operational phase of a building’s life. Office buildings are the most significant building type in terms of emission-reduction potential. Yet, little research has been undertaken to examine the barriers faced by building operators in transitioning to a green operation of the office buildings in their care. This study aims to identify those barriers. Design/methodology/approach Building facilities managers with between 7 and 25 years’ experience in operating primarily Melbourne high-rise office buildings were interviewed. The sample was taken from LinkedIn connections, with ten agreeing to participate in semi-structured interviews – out of the 17 invitations sent out. Interview comments were recorded, coded and categorised to identify the barriers sought by this study. Findings Seven categories of barriers to effecting green operation of office buildings were extracted. These were financial, owner-related, tenant-related, technological, regulatory, architectural and stakeholder interest conflicts. Difficulties identifying green operation strategies that improved cost performance or return on investment of buildings was the major barrier. Practical implications Government, policymakers and facilities managers themselves have been struggling with how to catalyse a green transition in the operation of office buildings. By identifying the barriers standing in the way, this study provides a concrete point of departure from which remedial strategies and policies may be formulated and put into effect. Originality/value The uptake of green operation of office buildings has been extremely slow. Though barriers have been hypothesised in earlier works, this is the first study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, that categorically identifies and tabulates the barriers that stand in the way of improving the green operational performance of office buildings, drawing on the direct knowledge of facilities experts.
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Weber, Felix, Peter Huber, Fredrik Borchsenius, and Christian Braun. "Performance of TMDI for Tall Building Damping." Actuators 9, no. 4 (December 15, 2020): 139. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/act9040139.
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This study investigates the vibration reduction of tall wind-excited buildings using a tuned mass damper (TMD) with an inerter (TMDI). The performance of the TMDI is computed as a function of the floor to which the inerter is grounded as this parameter strongly influences the vibration reduction of the building and for the case when the inerter is grounded to the earth whereby the absolute acceleration of the corresponding inerter terminal is zero. Simulations are made for broadband and harmonic excitations of the first three bending modes, and the conventional TMD is used as a benchmark. It is found that the inerter performs best when grounded to the earth because, then, the inerter force is in proportion to the absolute acceleration of only the pendulum mass, but not to the relative acceleration of the two inerter terminals, which is demonstrated by the mass matrix. However, if the inerter is grounded to a floor below the pendulum mass, the TMDI only outperforms the TMD if the inerter is grounded to a floor within approximately the first third of the building’s height. For the most realistic case, where the inerter is grounded to a floor in the vicinity of the pendulum mass, the TMDI performs far worse than the classical TMD.
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Tsoka, Stella, Theodoros Theodosiou, Konstantia Papadopoulou, and Katerina Tsikaloudaki. "Assessing the Energy Performance of Prefabricated Buildings Considering Different Wall Configurations and the Use of PCMs in Greece." Energies 13, no. 19 (September 24, 2020): 5026. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/en13195026.
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Despite the multiple advantages of prefabricated compared to conventional buildings, such as significant reductions in cost and time, improved quality and accuracy in manufacture, easy dismantling and reuse of components, reduction in environmental degradation, increase of productivity gains, etc., they still share a small part of the European building stock, mainly in the Mediterranean. This paper attempts to highlight the potential of prefabricated buildings to achieve advanced levels of performance, particularly as regards their thermal and energy behavior. More specifically, in this paper the energy needs of a single-family building constructed with prefabricated elements is analyzed, considering different climate contexts. The prefabricated elements comprising the building envelope were developed in order to address specific requirements with respect to their structural, hygrothermal, energy, fire, acoustical, and environmental performance, within the research project SUPRIM (sustainable preconstructed innovative module). The new multifunctional building element, also incorporating phase change materials for increased latent thermal heat storage, has been proven to be beneficial in all the examined climate zones. The results of the relevant studies will highlight the contribution of the new prefabricated element to the sustainability of the overall construction, as well as its advantages when compared with conventional constructions.
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Burton, Henry V., and Mayank Sharma. "Quantifying the Reduction in Collapse Safety of Main Shock–Damaged Reinforced Concrete Frames with Infills." Earthquake Spectra 33, no. 1 (February 2017): 25–44. http://dx.doi.org/10.1193/121015eqs179m.
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A performance-based methodology is presented to quantify the reduction in collapse safety of main shock–damaged reinforced concrete frame buildings with infills. After assessing their collapse safety in the intact state, the residual collapse capacity following main shock damage is evaluated by conducting incremental dynamic analysis to collapse using main shock–aftershock ground motion sequences. The median collapse capacity and conditional probability of collapse for the main shock–damaged building, normalized by that of the intact case are the metrics used to measure the reduction in collapse safety. Taller buildings with built-in soft and weak first stories have the highest reduction in collapse safety as a result of main shock damage. Among the engineering demand parameters recorded during the main shock analyses, story drift demands (peak transient and residual) and infill strut axial deformations have the highest correlation with the decline in collapse performance. The results of the main shock–aftershock incremental dynamic analysis to collapse are used to develop fragility functions for the limit state defined by the building being structurally unsafe to occupy.
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Yoon, Jung Won. "Sustainability Assessment of Smart Materials in Buildings." Materials Science Forum 940 (December 2018): 133–40. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/msf.940.133.
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Smart materials are discussed in architecture to transfer the state-of-the-art technology and expand the horizon of building performance. Although the effects of smart material applications in building design are discussed in literature and publications from the context of an autonomous responsive system and an environment-control device, the notion of sustainability assessment of smart materials is not comprehensively discussed yet. Researches on the energy simulation, life cycle cost assessment, thermal behavior evaluation, and daylight assessment have been developed for some specific materials. However, the sustainable performance of building is evaluated with criteria of region-based building sustainability assessment tools. Although smart materials in building may contribute to energy demand reduction and be considered as innovative technology with multiple values, currently available sustainability assessment tools would not allow the adequate evaluation of smart materials in buildings. Therefore, this research reviews the possibility to evaluate smart materials in major sustainability assessment tools – BREEAM, LEED, and CASBEE and proposes the assessment criteria to embrace a smart material application in architecture as an opportunistic smart approach toward sustainability of buildings.
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Kang, Jae Sik, Ji Hye Lim, Gyeong Seok Choi, and Seung Eon Lee. "Building Policies for Energy Efficiency and the Development of a Zero-Energy Building Envelopment System in Korea." Advanced Materials Research 689 (May 2013): 35–38. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.689.35.
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In this paper, the status of South Korea's policy (i.e., major support measures and energy performance standards) for the achievement of zero-energy buildings was investigated. Development of a high-performance envelopment system and its performance were also analyzed. The South Korean government has been proclaiming and enacting standards and ordinances related to green buildings since 1999. In 2008, it announced more specific and detailed regulations based on the Framework Act on Green Growth, which presents annual greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and mandates the realization of zero-energy buildings by 2025. To meet these legal standards and achieve the country’s energy-saving goals, the high-performance building envelop system was developed. The insulation performance of this system turned out to be equal or higher than the insulation performance standards for passive houses. It is expected that the use of the high-performance envelop system and renewable energy will contribute to realizing the nation's goal of mandatory application of zero-energy apartment houses.
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Moore, T. A., J. H. Kobzeff, J. Diri, and C. Arnold. "The Whittier Narrows, California Earthquake of October 1, 1987—Preliminary Evaluation of the Performance of Strengthened Unreinforced Masonry Buildings." Earthquake Spectra 4, no. 1 (February 1988): 197–212. http://dx.doi.org/10.1193/1.1585472.
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This report presents preliminary case studies of the performance of selected unreinforced masonry buildings during the Whittier Narrows Earthquakes. Attention is focused on buildings located in the downtown Los Angeles area which have been rehabilitated to conform with the Los Angeles hazard reduction Ordinance. There was no life loss or major injuries attributed to the response of unreinforced masonry buildings to the earthquakes. However, there was a significant number of both rehabilitated and non-strengthened buildings for which masonry peeled off upper story walls. This was mainly due to separation of the outer whythe of brick, or out-of-plane bending failure, and/or in-plane shear failures of wall piers, particularly at building corners. The falling bricks associated with these failures did present an injury hazard so it is important to investigate economical measures to minimize these hazards in future earthquakes.
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Ahmed, Abdullahi, Monica Mateo-Garcia, Andrew Arewa, and Kassim Caratella. "Integrated Performance Optimization of Higher Education Buildings Using Low-Energy Renovation Process and User Engagement." Energies 14, no. 5 (March 8, 2021): 1475. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/en14051475.
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Building performance improvement through low-energy renovation traditionally involves building performance diagnostics of the existing building, technology evaluation, selection and implementation. Effective building performance diagnostics, post-retrofit assessment and user engagement are essential to deliver performance as well as achieving socio-economic and environmental benefits at every stage of the renovation project life cycle. User’s views are often ignored when renovating a building, causing sub-optimal energy performance, user comfort and wellbeing. This paper seeks to critically evaluate the low-energy renovation process and the role of user and stakeholder engagement in the strategic implementation of low-energy retrofit technologies for performance improvement of higher education buildings. The research focuses on renovation methodology, innovative materials/systems and end-user engagement throughout the renovation project phases (pre-renovation, the renovation process and post renovation). A mixed research method was adopted, which includes building performance modelling, monitoring and user evaluation questionnaires pre and post-renovation. The research is part of European Union (EU)-funded project, targeting 50% reduction in energy consumption using innovative materials and technologies in existing public buildings. The surveys allow comparative analysis of comfort levels and user satisfaction as an indicator of the efficacy of renovation measures. A new renovation process and user engagement framework was developed. The findings suggest that there is a direct relationship between retrofit intervention, improving energy performance of low-carbon buildings and the comfort of occupants. The technologies and strategies also appear to have different impacts on user satisfaction.
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Lim, Taesub, Woong Seog Yim, and Daeung Danny Kim. "Evaluation of Daylight and Cooling Performance of Shading Devices in Residential Buildings in South Korea." Energies 13, no. 18 (September 11, 2020): 4749. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/en13184749.
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Accounting for more than half of buildings in South Korea, the energy consumed by residential buildings has become a main concern and the cooing demand has rapidly increased. To reduce energy consumption, several passive and active design strategies have generally been applied. However, there has been an increasing demand for high window-to-wall ratios in residential buildings, it is imperative to block sunlight into a building effectively. Focusing on the reduction of cooling energy consumption in a residential building, the present study assessed the daylight and energy performance of shading devices. Among various types of shading devices, the Venetian blind, horizontal louver, light shelf, and egg-crate were selected. The illuminance levels in three different areas in a building were measured. In addition, the annual cooling energy consumption by these shading devices was investigated. As a result, both daylight and energy performance varied with different design options of these shading devices. Because of the slight performance difference among shading devices, the artificial loads of two best shading devices were compared. In sum, the egg-crate shading was the most proper shading device to block sunlight as well as reduce the cooling energy consumption effectively.
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Kazemi Rad, Melissa, David Riley, Somayeh Asadi, and Parhum Delgoshaei. "Improving the performance profile of energy conservation measures at the Penn State University Park Campus." Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management 24, no. 4 (July 17, 2017): 610–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/ecam-02-2016-0050.
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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine significant steps taken by the Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) to account for both energy cost savings and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goals through strategic investments in energy conservation measures (ECMs) in campus buildings. Through an analysis of multiple years of investment in facility upgrades across the university, the impacts of ECMs of various types are characterized by building type. The standards and criteria for ECMs investments are also evaluated with the goal to develop a predictive tool to support decision making pertaining to an annual investment in a portfolio of ECMs that will maintain a trajectory to achieve both financial return on investment as well as GHG reduction goals. Design/methodology/approach This study is comprised of three main parts: analyzing the energy costs saving and GHG emissions reduction contribution of various building types in which ECMs were conducted, analyzing costs saving and GHG emissions reduction contribution of each ECM while considering the average annual investments made in them and estimating the impact of upgrading Penn State’s steam plants from firing a mixture of coal and natural gas to natural gas only on the GHG emissions. Findings These analyses help identify which types of buildings and ECMs would have larger savings and emissions reduction contributions. A calculator is also created to enable forecasting of costs saving and GHG emissions reduction of investment distribution strategy among ECMs. This study demonstrates that the calculator based on data from previous years will benefit decision makers in more wisely configuring the investment portfolio. Originality/value This paper fulfills an identical need to couple energy efficiency strategies coupled with the environmental impacts associated with different fossil fuel energy sources.
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Piro, Patrizia, Marco Carbone, Marilena De Simone, Mario Maiolo, Piero Bevilacqua, and Natale Arcuri. "Energy and Hydraulic Performance of a Vegetated Roof in Sub-Mediterranean Climate." Sustainability 10, no. 10 (September 28, 2018): 3473. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su10103473.
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Widespread overbuilding, the prevalence of asphalt surfaces on green areas, and the use of building materials with low heat dissipation abilities are among the main causes of Urban Heat Islands. Within urban areas, evapotranspiration and shade from plants can significantly reduce the UHI phenomenon, help in stormwater management, and reduce building energy consumption. The goal of this work is to analyze the hydraulics and energy performances of an experimental extensive green roof at the University of Calabria (Italy) in Mediterranean area. This study confirmed that green roofs significantly mitigate storm water runoff generation in terms of runoff volume reduction and peak attenuation, and improve the thermal performance of buildings and the internal comfort of indoor spaces.
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Hu, Ming. "Optimal Renovation Strategies for Education Buildings—A Novel BIM–BPM–BEM Framework." Sustainability 10, no. 9 (September 14, 2018): 3287. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su10093287.
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The aim of this paper is to propose a novel building information model (BIM)–building performance model (BPM)–building environmental model (BEM) framework to identify the most energy-efficient and cost-effective strategies for the renovation of existing education buildings to achieve the nearly zero-energy goal while minimizing the environmental impact. A case building, the University of Maryland’s Architecture Building, was used to demonstrate the validity of the framework and a set of building performance indicators—including energy performance, environmental impacts, and occupant satisfaction—were used to evaluate renovation strategies. Additionally, this novel framework further demonstrated the interoperability among different digital tools and platforms. Lastly, following a detailed analysis and measurements, the case study results highlighted a particular energy profile as well as the retrofit needs of education buildings. Eight different renovation packages were analyzed with the top-ranking package indicating an energy saving of 62%, carbon emissions reduction of 84%, and long-term cost savings of 53%, albeit with a relatively high initial cost. The most preferable package ranked second in all categories, with a moderate initial cost.
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Buday, Peter, Rastislav Ingeli, and Miroslav Čekon. "Influence of Thermal Break Element Applied in Balcony Slab on Internal Surface Temperature." Advanced Materials Research 1057 (October 2014): 79–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.1057.79.
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Reduction of energy use in buildings is an important measure to achieve climate change mitigation. It is essential to minimize heat losses when designing and building energy efficient buildings. For an energy-efficient building in a cold climate, a large part of the space heating demand is caused by transmission losses through the building envelope. To achieve this, it is necessary to have processed a detailed design of buildings. Thermal bridges have to be eliminated in the design of buildings. Thermal bridges occur as point ones or linear. One of the specific details that create thermal leakage is located in balcony slabs. The balcony is one of the main reasons of the increased heat loss of buildings. The presence of thermal bridge in constructions of balcony envelopes influences the energy consumption, durability of the building envelopes, and also the thermal comfort of occupants. This paper is focused on advanced analysis of thermal performance of thermal break element applied in balcony slab with parametric correlation to the thermal properties of wall building envelope.
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Nam, Seunghoon, Jaemoon Kim, and Duwhan Lee. "Current Status of Aged Public Buildings and Effect Analysis Prediction of Green Remodeling in South Korea." Sustainability 13, no. 12 (June 10, 2021): 6649. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su13126649.
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The purpose of this study is to analyze the scope of the expected improvement effect of office buildings and educational research facilities according to green remodeling. Thus, in order to quantitatively grasp the architectural performance of the existing buildings, the building thermal performance, the airtightness, the indoor environment, and the air quality were measured using equipment. The analysis indicated that the envelope performance and the indoor environment were unsatisfactory compared to the current legal standards, and for indoor air quality, CO2 and formaldehyde were measured to be dissatisfactory in some buildings. The energy analysis results indicated that the improvement range differed according to the renovation history for each building, resulting in differences in the energy-saving rate for each alternative. The reduction rates of primary energy consumption using energy simulation were 38.5–67.4% for office buildings and 23.7–66.3% for educational research facilities, and the payback periods were 14 to 27 years for office buildings and 12 to 30 years for educational research facilities. These results are expected to contribute to the activation of green remodeling because they can be used as indicators to predict the expected construction cost, the payback period, and the expected effect required for green remodeling.
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Turcsányi, Peter, and Anna Sedláková. "Assessment of two different methods of calculating a heating demand." Selected Scientific Papers - Journal of Civil Engineering 14, no. 2 (December 1, 2019): 51–60. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/sspjce-2019-0017.
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AbstractPhenomenon of today′s era is lowering overall energy performance and greenhouse gas emissions. European Union and its members came from an “uncontrollable” fossil fuel usage to an era of dependence reduction from fossil fuel usage. EU industry is now in era of utilizing renewable energy sources. Construction industry is responsible for 40% of total energy performance of EU; hence the great emphasis on energy effective design on new buildings as well as importance on energy effective renovation of already constructed buildings. Effort on lowering total energy performance in construction industry has signed on research on new project solutions, new insulation materials and new building services technologies which are maximizing energy gain from renewable energy sources. Simulation software and different engines are more than helpful tool when predicting building thermal behaviour. That is why simulation software is used more often in the process of designing energy efficient buildings or in the process of energy performance optimization of existing buildings. simulation and analytics itself, is dealing with simulation of chosen buildings (family houses) on heating demand based on the newest knowledge of constructions and materials. Results of heating demands of different family houses were confronted against heating demands calculated according national standards – using non-variable conditions. Next, the differences between two calculation approaches were characterized in percentages.
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Visscher, Henk, Dasa Majcen, and Laure Itard. "Energy Saving Policies for Housing Based on Wrong Assumptions?" Open House International 39, no. 2 (June 1, 2014): 78–83. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/ohi-02-2014-b0010.
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The energy saving potential of the building stock is large and considered to be the most cost efficient to contribute to the CO2 reduction ambitions. Severe governmental policies steering on reducing the energy use seem essential to stimulate and enforce the improvement of the energy performance of buildings with a focus on reducing the heating and cooling energy demand. In Europe the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive is a driving force for member states to develop and strengthen energy performance regulations for new buildings and energy certificates for the building stock. The goals are to build net zero energy new buildings in 2020 and to reach a neutral energy situation in the whole stock by 2050. More and more research projects deliver insight that the expected impact of stricter regulations for newly built houses is limited and the actual effects of energy savings through housing renovations stay behind the expectations. Theoretical energy use calculated on base of the design standard for new houses and assessment standards for Energy Performance Certificates of existing dwellings differ largely from the measured actual energy use. The paper uses the findings of some Post Occupancy Evaluation research projects. Is the energy saving potential of the housing stock smaller than expected and should we therefore change the policies?
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Garcia, Juan, and Lukas Kranzl. "Ambition Levels of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB) Definitions: An Approach for Cross-Country Comparison." Buildings 8, no. 10 (October 15, 2018): 143. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/buildings8100143.
Full textAbstract:
Since buildings account for 40% of total energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions in the European Union (EU), the directive 2010/31/EU “Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPDB)” among other legal provisions concerning the reduction of energy consumption of buildings has been enforced. According to this legislation, all new buildings must be nearly zero energy buildings “nZEB” by 31 December 2020 (public buildings by 31 December 2018). Nonetheless, the assessment of the “high energy performance” of a building is ambiguous and a cross country comparison seems to be intricate since different national building codes and nZEB definitions employ different energy indicators and methods. This paper delves into the question of how do the ambition levels of “nZEB” definitions and the transposition of the Directive 2010/31/EU into national law differ in four selected EU Countries: Austria, Germany, Spain, and England (as part of UK). The energy performance of some exemplary buildings is assessed by means of a simplified MATLAB model that is based on the norm DIN V-18599. The results drawn from this work show how diverse are building codes scopes and national “nZEB” definitions. Only 9 of the 36 studied cases of residential buildings obtain consistently the “nZEB” compliance status in all four selected countries. The results show that climate conditions, energy requirements, primary energy factors, ambition levels, and calculation methodologies lead to the problem of an uneven cross-country comparison. Moreover, primary energy consumption [kWh/m2a] set as the main quantitative energy indicator by the directive 2010/31/EU might not be the most suitable one for an EU level comparison.