Developing an economic led approach to zero carbon housing design through integration and substitution of traditional building materials

Abstract

Zero carbon homes have met with mixed reactions from key stakeholders within the housing and energy sectors, with many bespoke zero carbon designs being rejected as commercially unviable. This paper draws on research conducted with The University of Surrey and Zedfactory Architects to outline key factors which should be considered in order to facilitate the adoption of a more commercialised approach to zero carbon design. Key design criteria for zero carbon homes are outlined before presenting a housing model designed to provide the best balance between the financial, technical and social elements involved. The paper then demonstrates the importance of reducing the additional costs associated with zero carbon design through integrating energy efficiency and generation technologies into the building fabric; by substituting the use of traditional building materials with energy generating ones it is possible to create both an energy and economically efficient housing model. The proposed energy system adopts an integrated approach to the selection of space heating, water heating and ventilation technologies in order to create a design that is as user friendly as possible. By adopting this approach it is argued that it is possible to develop a model which does not require major changes in household behaviour patterns to work. The paper also highlights the importance of carefully balancing energy production and exportation to grid connected sources to develop a zero carbon home that can substantially reduce the financial burdens of rising energy costs.