How do you balance the energy demand and supply of a net-zero energy building?

1 Reduce energy demand

The first step to balance the energy demand and supply of a NZEB is to reduce the energy demand as much as possible, by applying passive design principles and high-performance building envelopes. Passive design refers to the use of natural ventilation, daylighting, shading, insulation, and thermal mass to optimize the indoor comfort and air quality, without relying on mechanical systems. High-performance building envelopes are those that minimize heat loss and gain, and have low air leakage and high thermal resistance. By reducing the energy demand, you can lower the size and cost of the renewable energy systems needed to meet the net-zero target.

2 Match energy supply and demand

The second step to balance the energy demand and supply of a NZEB is to match the energy supply and demand as closely as possible, by using smart controls, energy storage, and demand response. Smart controls are devices and software that monitor and adjust the operation of the renewable energy systems, the mechanical systems, and the electrical loads, based on the weather conditions, the grid signals, and the user preferences. Energy storage is the process of storing excess energy produced by the renewable energy systems, and releasing it when needed, to smooth out the fluctuations in the energy supply and demand. Demand response is the strategy of shifting or reducing the energy demand during peak hours or when the grid is stressed, to avoid grid instability or high electricity prices.

4 Optimize system performance

The fourth step to balance the energy demand and supply of a NZEB is to optimize the system performance, by using efficient equipment, proper sizing, commissioning, and maintenance. Efficient equipment are those that have high energy conversion or utilization rates, low energy losses or waste, and low environmental impacts. Proper sizing refers to the process of determining the optimal capacity and configuration of the renewable energy systems, the mechanical systems, and the energy storage systems, based on the energy demand and supply analysis, and the design criteria. Commissioning is the process of verifying and testing the functionality and performance of the systems, before and after the installation, to ensure that they meet the design specifications and expectations. Maintenance is the process of inspecting and repairing the systems, to prevent failures and degradation, and to prolong their lifespan.

5 Monitor and evaluate performance

The fifth step to balance the energy demand and supply of a NZEB is to monitor and evaluate the performance, by using metering, data analysis, and feedback. Metering is the process of measuring and recording the energy consumption and production of the building, using sensors, meters, and data loggers. Data analysis is the process of processing and interpreting the metering data, using software tools and methods, to identify the trends, patterns, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement. Feedback is the process of communicating and reporting the results and findings of the data analysis, to the building owners, operators, occupants, and other stakeholders, to inform them of the actual performance and achievements of the NZEB, and to encourage them to take actions to improve or maintain them.

6 Engage and educate stakeholders

The sixth step to balance the energy demand and supply of a NZEB is to engage and educate the stakeholders, by using awareness, training, and incentives. Stakeholders are those who have an interest or influence in the NZEB project, such as the developers, designers, contractors, suppliers, regulators, utilities, owners, operators, occupants, and neighbors. Awareness is the process of informing and raising the awareness of the stakeholders about the concept, benefits, and challenges of NZEBs, using media, events, campaigns, and demonstrations. Training is the process of providing and facilitating the learning and skills development of the stakeholders, especially the operators and occupants, on how to operate and use the NZEB systems and features, using manuals, guides, workshops, and simulations. Incentives are the process of rewarding and motivating the stakeholders to participate and cooperate in the NZEB project, using financial, social, or environmental incentives, such as subsidies, rebates, certificates, recognition, or feedback.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?