Reduction in energy consumption and CO2 emissions by retrofitting an existing building to a net zero energy building for the implementation of SDGs 7 and 13

Abstract

This work aims to reduce the energy consumption of existing buildings through retrofitting and converting them into net zero energy buildings (NZEBs). Various retrofits for an existing academic building were modeled and analyzed using REVIT software. Energy consumption was reduced to approximately 34% through retrofits, and a Solar System of 41.6 kW was integrated to meet the reduced energy demand, consequently converting the building into an net zero energy building (NZEB). Furthermore, environmental and economic analyses were conducted, and the results show a reduction of 32.8 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year as a result of retrofitting the building, converting it into an net zero energy building. The building envelope retrofits and electrical appliances have a payback period of 2.96 and 2.62 years, respectively, whereas the proposed Solar System has a payback period of only 2.3 years. Moreover, the building was rated using the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating tool, and it qualifies for silver certification after retrofits and the integration of renewable energy sources (RES). The reduction in energy consumption and integration of renewable energy sources contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, and reduced CO2 emissions save climate variations, which leads to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 13.

Research on Technology System Adaptability of Nearly Zero-Energy Office Buildings in the Hot Summer and Cold Winter Zone of China

“…The above data are sufficient to illustrate the importance of conducting research on the applicability of nearly zero-energy office building technology systems for different sub-climatic zones and different cooling and heating load requirements in the HSCW zone. Nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEBs), a worldwide perspective on building energy conservation and renewable energy utilization, have earned an increasing interest in the Nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEBs), a worldwide perspective on building energy conservation and renewable energy utilization, have earned an increasing interest in the pursuit of sustainable development [39,40]. A nearly zero-energy building is a building that adapts to climatic characteristics and natural conditions, minimizes heating, cooling, and lighting needs via passive technology, maximizes the efficiency of energy equipment and systems via active technology, makes full use of renewable energy, provides a comfortable indoor environment with minimal energy consumption, and meets the standard requirements for indoor environmental parameters and energy consumption indicators [36].…”

The 2013 Mexican Energy Reform in the Context of Sustainable Development Goal 7

“…It is possible to conclude that both options are irreconcilable with SDG 7; at least as Mexico speeds up its transition to renewable and clean energy. With regard to this, distinguished scholars have published an array of sustainability solutions to increase the reliability and variability of renewable energy that Mexican policymakers could adopt to strengthen the current energy laws [54][55][56]. Still, this topic is beyond the scope of this article.…”

A Review on Harnessing Renewable Energy Synergies for Achieving Urban Net-Zero Energy Buildings: Technologies, Performance Evaluation, Policies, Challenges, and Future Direction

“…However, several case studies have shown that NZEB retrofits with passive strategies, including optimizing envelope insulation, heating and lighting systems, shading and controls, can transform them into viable environmental options. These passive design interventions reduce CO 2 emissions and can also provide energy and environmental payback times shorter than the building's life cycle [83][84][85]. Ohene et al [84] indicated that introducing solar PV technology to retrofitted buildings can even generate net positive energy, facilitating buildings converted to NZEBs within the payback period.…”