Design and practical application of an innovative net-zero energy house with integrated photovoltaics: a case study from Solar Decathlon China 2013

Abstract

The Solark I Prototype was Southeast University's proposal for Solar Decathlon China 2013. This paper presents the prototype's passive strategies, active systems and performance results. The limitations, future perspectives and potential for replicability and transposition of Solark I are also discussed. Through a whole-building design process, Solark I effectively integrates all aspects of weather data analysis, building design, building envelope design, photovoltaic system design, solar hot water system design and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system design to minimize energy consumption and environmental impacts. Solark I achieved an excellent balance between passive strategies and highly efficient active systems. These design decisions help Solark I to maintain its hydrothermal comfort and perform all regular tasks with minimum energy consumption. This low energy consumption allows Solark I to obtain a positive energy balance both in annual energy simulations and on-site during the monitored period.

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