A Design framework for achieving net zero energy commercial buildings

Abstract

Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) are currently an emerging performance target for sustainable commercial buildings. A central issue is how this target can be met either through the design of new buildings or retrofitting of existing buildings. From a review of the NZEB definitions it is argued a new conceptualisation is needed which maps specific carbon abatement emissions for the components of the total energy system. The NZEB approach is examined in four projects. It is argued that retrofitting is needed to achieve reductions in global im pact in terms of CO2 but often the scope of work is beyond the owner’s capability, Hence, local, national and global ‘welfare’ (subsidies and incentives) are needed. Nation states in this study are responding differently to this welfare capacity by promoting or penalizing the NZEB building methodologies. More research is need to assess the level of welfare needed to support NZEB and to limit the environmental impacts of commercial buildings in line with GHG abatement targets.