Net Zero Buildings Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Net Zero Buildings - Research Paper Example These type of designs or buildings are referred to as net zero energy buildings. Typically, these buildings produce energy which is equal to the amount of energy used for every year. Although this technology is new, it is gaining popularity as people realize the need to shift from energy reliance to green economy. Net zero energy buildings are efficient in that they are not only energy efficient, but also cost effective in the long run. Net zero energy is a new term that lacks a definite definition. However, the basic concept is that all definitions imply that this technology is energy efficient. It is very important to understand some of the basic definitions of zero net energy building to comprehend how they operate in terms of energy use. Typically, net zero energy can be described in many ways. Net energy is the energy consumed or generated at a certain site irrespective of the origins of the energy. In a net zero site building, the energy consumed in one year is equal to the ene rgy produced in a given year. On the other hand, source energy is the energy required to extract and deliver energy to the source, which must be accounted for when calculating the zero energy net buildings (Architecture & Sustainable Development, 44). Net zero energy costs refers to the amount paid by the utility which is equal to the amount of money that the owner pays for the energy services as well as energy used throughout the year. The other important concept that is paramount in defining zero energy buildings is the net zero energy emissions. Here, the buildings produce free renewable energy emissions that is equal to emissions produced in energy sources. Successful zero energy ensures that all technologies that ensure energy efficiency are installed. The building is made in such a way that energy requirements decrease space for heating and cooling of water. Likewise, the design increases the efficiency of the furnace and air conditioner such that they use less energy. In addi tion, a solar system for hot water, which acts as a backup for water heater, is ensured in such buildings. Efficient lighting fixtures and energy conserving efficiencies like photovoltaic are also used to enhance the efficiency further (Papadopoulou, 87). Anything that makes use of less energy consumption while making use of the renewable sources at the same time is useful for this design. A thorough research on the design of the building is done by experts to ensure that all materials used up for the building consume less energy at all costs. Typically, implementation of the design requires specialized skills and expertise to ensure that all possibilities of saving on nonrenewable energy are minimized as much as possible while sources of renewable sources are maximized. All the discussed design is very efficient in terms of energy consumption in the future. It is worth noting that zero energy buildings have improved comfort through temperature regulation processes. This is achieved by the process of infiltration and insulation through a variety of processes. Insulation encloses buildings and improves the resistance to heat in and out of the building. This allows the building to remain cool in summer seasons and warn during the winter season. The R value measures in buildings signify a better insulation system. Likewise, these buildings are reliable because