Energy code compliant house design for lowest lifecycle cost based on market-available technologies

Abstract

Investigating code-compliant and market-available options for building envelope, domestic systems, and solar photovoltaic systems accounting for construction and operational cost, the near-lowest lifecycle cost (LCC) design compliant with building energy codes is identifiable following the methodology proposed in this study. A case study of a house design in Edmonton, Canada, is conducted to demonstrate the methodology; the 30-year LCC of options for code-compliance are calculated for three energy cost scenarios. The results indicate that the most cost-effective design may have a 16% to 30% lower LCC than other investigated designs. In terms of achieving a similar level of energy performance, a house that uses a heat recovery ventilator, forced-air gas-fired space heating system, tankless water heater, and features a less-insulated building envelope offers the lowest LCC. The results of this study suggest that LCC should be considered in the development of building energy regulations to include economic aspects while proposing energy standards.