Parametrized passive house standard compliance energy analysis of three exemplary carbon neutral hybrid timber technology-based building renovations in the Republic of Korea

Abstract

So-called Passive House (PH) and near net Zero Energy Building (nZEB) concepts have become standards for energy-efficient building renovations with low greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Minimizing building service energy demand related GHG emissions requires detailed specification and assessment of energy-efficient renovation measures and user behavior prediction. This study examines the compliance with the PH-standard of three exemplary carbon neutral hybrid-timber technology-based building renovations in the Republic of Korea. The simulation of assessment indicators employed a parametric design system to automate exporting data from building models to the PH Planning Package. Calculations were compared with threshold values for the PH-standard to evaluate compliance. The results showed that thermal bridge compensation contributed to the reduction of heating- and cooling-associated primary energy demand. The residential buildings (apartment and multi-unit) achieve the passive house standard, while the renovated mixed-use building does not achieve the standard due to high user and process loads. The parametric design facilitates the evaluation of multiple design options with variable user behavior. Integration of heating, cooling, mechanical ventilation, hot water production, and user behavior related to passive ventilation and the shading of transparent components were found to be critical factors in achieving passive house standard thresholds.