LCA of net-zero energy residential buildings with different HVAC systems across Canadian climates: A BIM-based fuzzy approach

• DOI: 10.1016/j.enbuild.2024.113905
• Publication Date: 2024-01-11T12:16:31Z
• Authors: Rojini Kathiravel; Shiyao Zhu; Haibo Feng

The urgency of addressing building energy consumption's impact on climate change, particularly from fossil fuels, is great significance. This study investigates the environmental and economic aspects different climatic conditions in Canadian regions throughout a building's life cycle. Focusing HVAC systems, choice between electricity, natural gas solar sources. Using whole cycle assessments simulations, research examines 36 scenarios, considering three popular systems with six weather conditions. To reduce uncertainties, employs BIM fuzzy-based methods. results identified consistent impacts across averaging 1.4 tonnes CO2eq/m2 GHG, 1.74 kg/m2 PM2.5, 3.61 SO2 emissions for typical net-zero Canada. Variations primarily result operational, embodied, transportation stages, rather than other stages. Colder climates, like central Canada, exhibit higher demands increased global warming potential. Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP has lower despite upfront costs preferred when both factors. However, mild climates Vancouver, Air (ASHP) optimal. Photovoltaic panels enhance system feasibility various options. provides insights industry stakeholders, including designers, owners, policymakers.