Potential for Net-zero Energy in an Artificially Ventilated Single-family Dwelling Unit

Abstract

Net-zero energy buildings are buildings that consume less energy than other similar buildings, producing as much energy as it uses or more, from a renewable energy source. Buildings are, without a doubt, one of the key contributors to energy-related emissions. It is important to design buildings that need less energy. Using DesignBuilder, this research explores the potential for net-zero energy in an artificially ventilated single-family dwelling unit in Kuala Lumpur Subang, Malaysia. To achieve net-zero energy five steps are taken; step one involves determining the most energy-efficient glazing, step two involves investigating the most energy-efficient wall material, the next step considers the best window-to-wall ratio, the fourth includes the use of external shading devices and the final step introduces the use of roof installed solar panels. One of the key findings was that shading either through external shading devices or through more efficient glazing reduced the overall energy use and that as the energy needed for cooling reduced as a result of shading the energy needed for lighting slightly increased. The research also revealed that the energy consumption reduced as the wall insulation increased and that bricks/block walls were more energy-efficient than wooden walls without insulation. During the third phase of the research, findings revealed that the energy efficiency of the walls and the windows were the determining factor for which window-to-wall ratio was best. In all, net-zero energy was achieved by reducing the energy consumption by 73.4% and by generating more energy than the building consumes from photovoltaic cells.