A Multiobjective Optimization Approach for Retrofitting Decision-Making towards Achieving Net-Zero Energy Districts: A Numerical Case Study in a Tropical Climate

Abstract

Buildings are among the main reasons for the deterioration of the world environment as they are responsible for a large percentage of CO2 emissions related to energy. For this reason, it is necessary to find solutions to this problem. This research project consists of constructing the metamodel of an urbanization located in Panama, Herrera province. The classification and systematization of its main elements, using the software DesignBuilder and SysML diagrams, were carried out for its subsequent implementation in an optimization analysis that seeks to approach the NZED standard. The main objectives of the optimization are reducing the energy consumption at the lowest possible price while maintaining or improving thermal comfort. In this study, it was possible to reduce electricity consumption to at least 60% of the original value and about 10% of the renewable energy generation capacity by implementing optimization techniques within the retrofit category related to the envelope of the buildings and the occupant’s behavior.

A Methodology to identify appropriate refurbishment strategies towards zero energy buildings in a hot and humid climate

“…Note here that such costs only consider the construction costs and not the electricity consumption costs. As suggested by [23], the most expensive renovation solutions are related to the envelope elements, and the cheapest are related to changes in the occupant behaviour. This analysis presented before indicates that the optimization analysis should consider the following six design variables: cooling setpoint temperature, cooling operation schedule, internal floor and partition constructions, glazing type, and WWR.…”

“…Consequently, the restructuring actions should be aimed at containing the cooling energy demand. Previous studies have been conducted in order to identify a range of solutions suited to the examined context [23]. In addition to the measures already considered, this study aims to identify innovative solutions that can encourage the renovation of buildings into zero-energy buildings within a cost-effective framework.…”

Advances in Retrofitting Strategies for Energy Efficiency in Tropical Climates: A Systematic Review and Analysis

“…Multi-criteria decision-making has a subcategory called multi-objective decisionmaking; the latter was considered in [75] to reduce energy consumption, meet an optimal thermal comfort level, and decrease energy and refurbishment costs. In that study, a sensitivity analysis was performed to identify the variables strongly associated with those objectives.…”

A Reference Framework for Zero Energy Districts in Panama Based on Energy Performance Simulations and Bioclimatic Design Methodology

“…Because economic factors are not considered in the analysis, the selection of the number of modules is based on the highest generation that can be obtained with an optimal orientation for Panama (southward in regions of the northern hemisphere) [45], implementing a total of 120 modules connected in series, in each residence, adding a total of 4080 modules (dimensions 1.96 m × 0.99 m) on site. The panel model was chosen based on the market availability of the region, as in [46]. The main technical specifications are listed below [46]: (1) active area: 1.68 m 2 ; (2) maximum rated power: 320 W; (3) number of cells: 72; (4) cell type: polycrystalline silicon; and (5) panel efficiency: 15%.…”

“…The panel model was chosen based on the market availability of the region, as in [46]. The main technical specifications are listed below [46]: (1) active area: 1.68 m 2 ; (2) maximum rated power: 320 W; (3) number of cells: 72; (4) cell type: polycrystalline silicon; and (5) panel efficiency: 15%. These and the other electrical specifications required for the simulation were configured in the software, as in [46].…”