Moving Towards Net-Zero Energy of Existing Building in Hot Climate

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an extensive program of energy conservation and energy generation using integrated photovoltaic (PV) modules. The program conducted on an existing institutional building intending to convert it into a Net-Zero Energy Building (NZEB) or near net Zero Energy Building (nNZEB). The program consists of three phases; the first phase is concerned with energy auditing and energy conservation measures at minimum cost and the second phase implements a Building Management System (BMS) whereas the third phase considers the installation of photovoltaic modules in the building roof to provide considerable portion of the energy consumption in the building. The first phase results in an energy conservation of 6.5% of the building consumption. The second phase yields further reduction of the building energy consumption by about 55.4%. The average payback period of most energy conservation measures is about half year. In the third phase, approximately 27% of the total energy consumption with a payback period of less than 9 years and a saving of about 160 tone/year of CO2 emission can be accomplished.