Energy & Environmental Efficiency with Full Use of the Sun in a Sustainable Architecture Residence

Abstract

The objective in this work is to characterize a zero energy and energy efficient solar-house, demonstrating that it can be the basis for sustainable development, where sustainability particularly is measured by the contribution to mitigate global warming, that’s means reducing GHG emissions. In this sense, the systematization of solar-house appears with guidelines that guide its design under the end-use of electricity, environmental conditioning, application of solar systems and other equipment to ensure energy and environmental efficiency in its operation. Quantitative evidence appears securing the residential sector of Brazil as a case study, analyzing the Brazilian energy system and use of electricity by the residential sector, with concomitant evaluation of associated emissions of greenhouse gases. Moreover, it has been as solar house prototype verification as the EkoHouse identified model. The estimated reduction of GHG emissions is related to the use of electricity, and accounting for these emissions are considered photovoltaic generation to replace the power grid, and the adoption of energy efficiency measures. As a result this study presents a model of solar-house; defining strategies for energy and environmental efficiency in dwellings, the accounting of emissions avoided and the analysis of the benefits obtained by the application of solar-house model on a large scale in Brazil. To estimate impacts of these solutions on a larger scale, it is assumed as part of the case study Southeast of Brazil, and is considered the adoption of energy efficiency measures and PV generation to 50 % of homes in this area. The accounting shows a potential to prevent up to 355 tons of CO2. We conclude that solar-house modeled to have zero annual energy consumption and to be energy efficient, contributes to a low environmental impact and to sustainable development throughout mitigation of global warming by reducing GHG emissions.