Building envelope renovation for net zero energy building in hot humid climate

Abstract

Net Zero Energy building has become a topic that has drawn much attention from architects worldwide. Its concept is that buildings can meet all of their energy requirements from renewable sources. In Thailand, the renewable energy that is most suitable for integration into the idea of net zero energy building is photovoltiacs. With government funding, the communication affairs division building, Khon Kaen University, is selected for the renovation existing building to be net zero energy building. It is successfully proved that, after one year record, the energy produces by the PVs, 22,944 kWh is more than energy consumption, 20,932 kWh. This paper focuses on envelope renovation because it is an important part of the building that can apply to other renovation project in the future. It found that the envelope renovation for Net Zero Energy Building can be separated to be two part, for energy saving and for renewable energy installation. For photovoltaic installation, it can simply install on the metal sheet roof by using metal frame with special clip. The research and renovation on the envelope from this project can apply for the future net zero energy building in Thailand.