Proposal for Zero Energy Housing Prototypes in Jordan

Abstract

The residential sector in Jordan, as in many other countries worldwide, suffers from deficient energy building design, mainly due to improper building design and/or inappropriate selection of energy-related systems. Introducing residential buildings with zero-energy design can benefit designers, owners, and policymakers. The main aim of this study was to minimize energy usage and maximize the use of renewable energy in residential buildings. National statistics and an online survey were used to design the most acceptable architectural models. Recommended specifications for achieving zero-energy targets were then included based on various design guides and protocols. A building energy simulation tool was also employed to verify the annual energy consumption of the proposed prototypes. The simulated models proved the accuracy of the proposed designs when compared to the reported annual energy consumption. This article lays the foundation for a zero-energy design guide for residential buildings in Jordan and other countries with similar building and weather characteristics.