ABSTRACT:
Zero Energy Buildings (ZEB) have advanced from small-scale residential and commercial buildings to include nearly all building types and sectors. International concern with the consequences of global warming and increasing emphasis on energy efficient buildings has shifted the net zero discussion from proof of concept to successful implementation on a growing number of commercial and residential projects. With this growing experience, we are seeing lower construction costs premiums and wider interest in ZEB from public and private entities.
This presentation will:
- Explore the basic drivers, concepts and definitions of net zero buildings; including boundary conditions and frameworks that begin with energy use but may also use greenhouse gas emissions, electricity use, or cost
- Review the path to ZEB, including the Architecture 2030 Challenge, ASHRAE 2020 Vision, Federal and State actions, Passive House design, and the Living Building Challenge
- Discuss the evolving profile of the energy types used in Massachusetts
- Survey the state of net zero today, including project examples and metrics for a range of building types and climates
BIO:
David Bliss joined SGH in 2007. He has more than 25 years of experience in architectural design for new construction and rehabilitation projects. Mr. Bliss now specializes in sustainability, preservation, and design of new and existing building enclosures.