Nearly-zero Energy Buildings: Cost-optimal Analysis of Building Envelope Characteristics

• DOI: 10.1016/j.proenv.2017.03.069
• Publication Date: 2017-04-11T09:07:06Z
• Authors: K. Loukaidou; A. Michopoulos; Th. Zachariadis
• Keywords: Building envelope; Thermal transmittance; Envelope (radar)

Energy consumption in the building sector continues to increase entire world and therefore, determination of cost-optimal solutions towards nearly zero-energy buildings is a serious challenge. The present study focused on optimal thermal features envelope, including insulation wall, roof ground floor as well window properties, order achieve nearly-zero energy climate conditions Cyprus. A systematic robust scientific procedure was adapted determine levels performance leading minimum life-cycle cost. simulations different reference test-cell were performed, based external envelope's surface total volume ratio, calculated accordance with Regulation 244/2012/EU, taking into consideration three areas Cyprus – cities Limassol Nicosia mountainous area Saittas. Both transmittance coefficient envelope elements properties for each calculated. results demonstrate that are considerably higher than national requirements. Moreover, linear correlation found between (mean) transmission area, result underlines necessity forming independent zones instead one exists today.