Criteria for Definition of Net Zero Energy Buildings

Abstract

The idea of a Net Zero Energy Building (Net ZEB) is understood conceptually, as it is understood that the way a Net ZEB is defined affects significantly the way it is designed in order to achieve the goal. However, little agreement exists on a common definition; the term is used commercially without a clear understanding and countries are enacting policies and national targets based on the concept without a clear definition in place. This paper presents a harmonised framework for describing the relevant characteristics of Net ZEBs in a series of criteria. Evaluation of the criteria and selection of the related options becomes a methodology for elaborating sound Net ZEB definitions in a formal, systematic and comprehensive way, creating the basis for legislations and action plans to effectively achieve the political targets. The common denominator for the different possible Net ZEB definitions in the harmonised framework is the balance between delivered and feed-in energy and associated credits. Additionally, other indicators than the mere balance over a period of time may be given in order to add qualified information on the overall "goodness of design" of a Net ZEB. Finally, the monitoring procedure is considered as an integral part of the definition.

Analysis of Photovoltaic Applications in Zero Energy Building Cases of IEA SHC/EBC Task 40/Annex 52

“…The starting point may represent the performance of a new building built according to the minimum requirements of the building code or the performance of an existing building prior to renovation work. The general pathway to achieve an NZEB basically consists of two steps, namely reducing the energy demand (x-axis) by means of energy efficiency measures, and generating electricity, or other energy carriers, by means of energy supply options to obtain enough credits (y-axis) to achieve the balance [35]. Figure 2 shows the relationship between the final energy demand and renewable energy supply of the NZEB cases according to the building use and climate.…”

Passive design strategies and performance of Net Energy Plus Houses

“…Additionally, there are other imprecise items in the directive as the balance period, the balance boundary, the balancing method and energy weighting factors. Several researchers are working on clarifying and harmonizing the existing definitions, and proposing energy balance methods [3][4][5][6].…”

The potential of net zero energy buildings (NZEBs) concept at design stage for healthcare buildings towards sustainable development

“…According to the four definitions, it pointed out that the NZEBs is a grid connected building where the annual energy generation from a renewable source is equally with energy consumption during the term of one year. Similarly, Sartori et al, [10] emphasized that NZEBs is conceptually a building with a lower of energy demand and are balanced by the on-site generation of electricity, or other energy carriers, from renewable sources. Moreover, the authors also mentioned that the term NZEBs refer to buildings that are connected to the energy infrastructure.…”

“…The continuous improvement on the NZEBs definition can be seen through the study of Sartori et al [10] which to introduces a harmonised framework for describing the important elements of NZEBs in a series of criteria. Based on their study, the authors have listed several criteria that should be questioned and addressed in order to strengthen the overall NZEB "goodness of design" as well as to give a sound NZEB definitions in a formal, systematic and comprehensive way [10].…”

“…Based on their study, the authors have listed several criteria that should be questioned and addressed in order to strengthen the overall NZEB "goodness of design" as well as to give a sound NZEB definitions in a formal, systematic and comprehensive way [10]. The summary of the scope of questioned criteria among the task activities is illustrated as in Figure 2.…”