Analytics for Building-Scale Sustainable Ecosystems

ISBN Print: 978-1-56700-279-9

ISBN Online: 978-1-56700-288-1

DOI: 10.1615/978-1-56700-279-9.0

Yongxin Tao(open in a new tab) Department of Mechanical Engineering, Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
Yi Jiang(open in a new tab) Department of Building Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China

Chapter 11: Toward Net Zero Energy Buildings in 2018

DOI: 10.1615/978-1-56700-279-9.265

As evidence of climate change and global resource depletion grows, architects are increasingly challenged to design buildings that consume less energy. Buildings have already been attributed to over 40% of the total energy use that contributes to greenhouse gases in the United States, showing the alarming consequence of building design that relies heavily on fossil fuels [1]. The need to shift away from fossil energy to renewable energy usage for building operations is now greater than ever and presents a unique opportunity to address the challenges of energy security, climate change, and economic development. In response to these trends, the architectural industry and policy makers have continued to set new targets for zero fossil energy performance. Having standardized definitions and methodologies for integrated project delivery for net zero energy building implementations is essential for giving the industry and profession a unified approach to designing these buildings and to measuring the results of their actual yearly operation.

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