Article
Construction & Building Technology
Manta Marcelinus Dakyen, Mustafa Dagbasi, Murat ozdenefe
Summary: This study aims to establish reference residential buildings for Northern Cyprus lacking building energy regulations. Through statistical analysis of available building stock data, five residential reference buildings with distinct configurations were identified. EnergyPlus models were developed and calibrated for these buildings.
INDOOR AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Filip Patrcevic, Damir Dovic, Ivan Horvat, Petar Filipovic
Summary: This paper presents the methodology for conducting a cost-optimal energy performance calculation of a solar hot water system. The paper provides proposals for modifications to the newly introduced standards and analyzes the influence of parameters on building energy efficiency.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yovko Ivanov Antonov, Per Kvols Heiselberg, Michal Zbigniew Pomianowski
Summary: The paper introduces a method for evaluating energy efficiency and renewable energy measures in building renovation projects to achieve Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) standards. By incorporating a pre-step and a Cost-Effective Parameter (CEP) into the well-established cost-optimal methodology, decision support for renovation measures selection can be provided. The method is demonstrated using a case study building in Denmark, showing potential for further sensitivity analysis and integration of additional evaluation parameters.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Jon Fernandez-Luzuriaga, Luis del Portillo-Valdes, Ivan Flores-Abascal
Summary: The energy refurbishment of existing residential buildings faces challenges such as low replacement rates and high upfront investments. While the EU directive introduced the cost-optimal methodology, it has been limited to single buildings or building types. To address this, the research proposes applying the cost optimal method on an urban scale to determine suitable energy performance ranges for different building types, supporting decision-making for energy efficiency policies and investment mobilization.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2021)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Miguel Chen Austin, Katherine Chung-Camargo, Dafni Mora
Summary: This research aims to establish the basis for the development of Zero Energy Buildings adapted to the local climatic, cultural, social, technical, and economic context in Latin American countries, with a focus on Panama. The study revealed that buildings in Panama have the potential to become plus energy buildings, depending on the available roof surface area. The research provides insights for the introduction and assessment of a ZEB definition and framework in the region.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Shady Attia, Jarek Kurnitski, Piotr Kosinski, Anatolijs Borodinecs, Zsofia Deme Belafi, Kistelegdi Istvan, Hrvoje Krstic, Macedon Moldovan, Ion Visa, Nicolay Mihailov, Boris Evstatiev, Karolis Banionis, Miroslav Cekon, Silvia Vilcekova, Karel Struhala, Roman Brzon, Oriane Laurent
Summary: This study examines the barriers to implementing nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEB) in ten Eastern European countries. The results show that most of these countries face challenges in complying with guidelines and cost-optimality approaches. The paper ranks each country and recommends specific measures to refine the nZEB definitions, providing opportunities for the future development of climate-neutral high-performance buildings.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Nikola Vujnovic, Damir Dovic
Summary: This paper presents the procedure for conducting cost-optimal energy performance calculations for a new nearly zero energy hotel building in Croatia, using dynamic simulation models and optimization software to minimize costs. The results indicate that the preferred heat source at the cost-optimal level is an air-to-water heat pump coupled with a gas condensing boiler. Additionally, thermal comfort analysis is provided to demonstrate the application of the proposed approach in preventing system oversizing and efficiency decrease.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Daniela Carolina Da Costa Duarte, Carlos Rosa-Jimenez
Summary: This study aims to determine the cost-optimal strategy for transforming Spanish university buildings into nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEBs) in the Mediterranean climate. The results show that improving the efficiency of the thermal envelope and the HVAC system is the most profitable strategy for reducing energy consumption in the studied buildings.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Diana D'Agostino, Sabatino Mazzella, Federico Minelli, Francesco Minichiello
Summary: Photovoltaic (PV) systems are commonly used to achieve Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) targets. However, the lack of sufficient roof area for installation limits the spread of this technology, especially in densely populated urban areas. This study evaluates the possibility of using on-site PV systems on the roof to achieve NZEB targets for residential and office buildings in the Mediterranean area, considering different building typologies. Detailed analysis is provided to determine the building's geometric parameters that would allow for energy self-sufficiency without dynamic energy simulations in the early stages of the design process.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2022)
Article
Economics
Felipe Tori, Waldo Bustamante, Sergio Vera
Summary: The building sector can play a significant role in reducing GHG emissions, and Chile should consider adopting the successful policy of Net Zero Energy Buildings used by other countries. Chile needs to develop public policies to promote NZEB and evaluate the feasibility based on their climate conditions.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ana Ferreira, Manuel Duarte Pinheiro, Jorge de Brito, Ricardo Mateus, Rita Mendonca
Summary: This study examined the cost-optimal levels of envelope solutions in retail buildings in accordance with the Energy Performance of Building Directive and Portuguese regulation. The findings suggest that solutions with lower U-values, such as vacuum insulation panels and sandwich panels, can lead to 2-5% energy savings and are cost-effective over a 15-50 year period.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Sepehr Foroushani, Rob Bernhardt, Mark Bernhardt
Summary: Achieving net-zero energy levels of operational efficiency is crucial for decarbonizing the building sector at a large scale. The Passive House energy performance level is gaining global consensus as a net-zero energy ready standard. However, the North American Reference Building Approach (RBA) used to assess building energy performance has significant flaws, including the inability to deliver net-zero energy performance and the promotion of inefficient designs and poor energy modeling practices.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2022)
Article
Economics
Kai Nino Streicher, Matthias Berger, Evangelos Panos, Kapil Narula, Martin Christoph Soini, Martin K. Patel
Summary: The study analyzed the impact of deep energy retrofit on the Swiss residential building stock under different climate scenarios. It found that the cost-optimal pathway could achieve 77% GHG savings with an investment cost of 140 CHF/t CO2eq.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
A. Goenaga-Perez, M. alvarez-Sanz, J. Teres-Zubiaga, A. Campos-Celador
Summary: This paper evaluates the compliance with the nZEB standard in Spain and critically assesses its ability to promote cost optimization, renewable energy sources, and minimize primary energy consumption in the residential sector. By using DesignBuilder software to evaluate multiple designs, a virtual building was analyzed in five cities representing the five climatic zones of inland Spain. The results show the potential of photovoltaic energy, which allows for cost optimization through self-consumption.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Suzan Abdelhady
Summary: The tourism sector plays a crucial role in national income, and the integration of renewable energy resources promotes sustainable and environmentally-friendly tourism. Egypt's Vision 2030 emphasizes the importance of ensuring a reliable supply and efficient use of clean energy for the sustainable development of the tourism sector. Net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs) are a promising solution in reducing energy consumption and increasing the utilization of renewable energy. This study presents an optimization analysis of a hotel's grid-connected hybrid renewable energy system (HRES), demonstrating its technical, economic, and environmental benefits and providing guidance for the practical application of NZEBs in Egypt and similar regions.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Nicoletta Matera, Domenico Mazzeo, Paolo Maria Congedo
Summary: Hospital buildings are energy-intensive due to year-round operation, sophisticated equipment, and strict environmental regulations. This research studied the energy performance of a compound parabolic concentrator system in supplying domestic hot water to different hospital users at varying temperatures. It demonstrated the influence of component sizes on system behavior and proposed empirical correlations for system performance evaluation.
APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Simone Panico, Marco Larcher, Valentina Marincioni, Alexandra Troi, Cristina Baglivo, Paolo Maria Congedo
Summary: The reliability of hygrothermal simulations for building components is crucial for energy efficiency, living comfort, and preventing damage. The accuracy of the simulation model depends on the selection of input parameters, which is challenging due to high uncertainty. This study calibrates a hygrothermal simulation model using monitored values from a case study in Italy to assess its closeness to reality. The sensitivity analysis identifies the input parameters that significantly affect the simulation. The results show that reliable outputs can be obtained by selecting appropriate materials and indicate the importance of factors like water vapor diffusion resistance and boundary conditions.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Paolo Maria Congedo, Cristina Baglivo, Delia D'Agostino, Domenico Mazzeo
Summary: This paper investigates the impact of climate change on heat pumps and finds that a rising average temperature facilitates the transition to electric heat pumps in winter. However, differences are found among locations, scenarios, and RCPs. The research also shows a significant increase in cooling energy consumption in almost every climate zone, while winter energy consumption decreases.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Nicoletta Matera, Domenico Mazzeo, Cristina Baglivo, Paolo Maria Congedo
Summary: Hybrid renewable energy systems are a great solution for small energy communities to achieve energy independence. An analysis was conducted on PV-wind systems in 48 locations with different climates, and it was found that PV systems are more effective than wind systems, especially in dry and continental climates. The benefit-cost ratio is higher for grid-connected systems compared to stand-alone systems.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Nicoletta Matera, Domenico Mazzeo, Cristina Baglivo, Paolo Maria Congedo
Summary: Nowadays, there is great emphasis on the use of photovoltaic (PV) systems to address the issues of climate change and the energy crisis. The study demonstrates the training and validation of a network of artificial neural networks (ANNs) to predict the hourly electrical power output of different PV modules worldwide. The ANNs accurately describe the performance of each PV module under optimal inclination angles.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND ASSESSMENTS
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Simone Panico, Marco Larcher, Daniel Herrera Avellanosa, Cristina Baglivo, Alexandra Troi, Paolo Maria Congedo
Summary: This study investigates the impact of uncertain boundary climate conditions on the hygrothermal performance of internally insulated historic masonry walls using numerical simulations. The research compares different sources of internal and external climate data to assess their reliability. It reveals that choosing the appropriate indoor climate model and moisture load class is crucial for accurate simulation results.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Cristina Baglivo, Paolo Maria Congedo, Nicola Antonio Malatesta
Summary: Due to recent geopolitical events, zero-energy buildings must incorporate strategies to mitigate climate change. Italian regulations are aligned with European directives and aim to enhance the thermal insulation of buildings. This study examines whether updates to building energy efficiency regulations, particularly for the envelope, will improve its resilience to climate change.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2023)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Domenico Mazzeo, Cristina Baglivo, Simone Panico, Matteo Manieri, Nicoletta Matera, Paolo Maria Congedo
Summary: This study analyzes scientific literature on eco-sustainable energy production in the healthcare sector, particularly hospitals, and highlights the need for further research on the potential application of renewable energy systems in hospitals.
Article
Thermodynamics
Yong Cheng, Fukai Song, Lei Fu, Saishuai Dai, Zhiming Yuan, Atilla Incecik
Summary: This paper investigates the accessibility of wave energy absorption by a dual-pontoon floating breakwater integrated with hybrid-type wave energy converters (WECs) and proposes a hydraulic-pneumatic complementary energy extraction method. The performance of the system is validated through experiments and comparative analysis.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jing Gao, Chao Wang, Zhanwu Wang, Jin Lin, Runkai Zhang, Xin Wu, Guangyin Xu, Zhenfeng Wang
Summary: This study aims to establish a new integrated method for biomass cogeneration project site selection, with a focus on the application of the model in Henan Province. By integrating Geographic Information System and Multiple Criterion Decision Making methods, the study conducts site selection in two stages, providing a theoretical reference for the construction of biomass cogeneration projects.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mert Temiz, Ibrahim Dincer
Summary: The current study presents a hybrid small modular nuclear reactor and solar-based system for sustainable communities, integrating floating and bifacial photovoltaic arrays with a small modular reactor. The system efficiently generates power, hydrogen, ammonia, freshwater, and heat for residential, agricultural, and aquaculture facilities. Thermodynamic analysis shows high energy and exergy efficiencies, as well as large-scale ammonia production meeting the needs of metropolitan areas. The hybridization of nuclear and solar technologies offers advantages of reliability, environmental friendliness, and cost efficiency compared to renewable-alone and fossil-based systems.
Editorial Material
Thermodynamics
Wojciech Stanek, Wojciech Adamczyk
Article
Thermodynamics
Desheng Xu, Yanfeng Li, Tianmei Du, Hua Zhong, Youbo Huang, Lei Li, Xiangling Duanmu
Summary: This study investigates the optimization of hybrid mechanical-natural ventilation for smoke control in complex metro stations. The results show that atrium fires are more significantly impacted by outdoor temperature variations compared to concourse/platform fires. The gathered high-temperature smoke inside the atrium can reach up to 900 K under a 5 MW train fire energy release. The findings provide crucial engineering insights into integrating weather data and adaptable ventilation protocols for smoke prevention/mitigation.
Article
Thermodynamics
Da Guo, Heping Xie, Mingzhong Gao, Jianan Li, Zhiqiang He, Ling Chen, Cong Li, Le Zhao, Dingming Wang, Yiwei Zhang, Xin Fang, Guikang Liu, Zhongya Zhou, Lin Dai
Summary: This study proposes a new in-situ pressure-preserved coring tool and elaborates its pressure-preserving mechanism. The experimental and field test results demonstrate that this tool has a high pressure-preservation capability and can maintain a stable pressure in deep wells. This study provides a theoretical framework and design standards for the development of similar technologies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Aolin Lai, Qunwei Wang
Summary: This study assesses the impact of China's de-capacity policy on renewable energy development efficiency (REDE) using the Global-MSBM model and the difference-in-differences method. The findings indicate that the policy significantly enhances REDE, promoting technological advancements and marketization. Moreover, regions with stricter environmental regulations experience a higher impact.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mostafa Ghasemi, Hegazy Rezk
Summary: This study utilizes fuzzy modeling and optimization to enhance the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). By simulating and analyzing experimental data sets, the ideal parameter values for increasing power density, COD elimination, and coulombic efficiency were determined. The results demonstrate that the fuzzy model and optimization methods can significantly improve the performance of MFCs.
Article
Thermodynamics
Zhang Ruan, Lianzhong Huang, Kai Wang, Ranqi Ma, Zhongyi Wang, Rui Zhang, Haoyang Zhao, Cong Wang
Summary: This paper proposes a grey box model for fuel consumption prediction of wing-diesel hybrid vessels based on feature construction. By using both parallel and series grey box modeling methods and six machine learning algorithms, twelve combinations of prediction models are established. A feature construction method based on the aerodynamic performance of the wing and the energy relationship of the hybrid system is introduced. The best combination is obtained by considering the root mean square error, and it shows improved accuracy compared to the white box model. The proposed grey box model can accurately predict the daily fuel consumption of wing-diesel hybrid vessels, contributing to operational optimization and the greenization and decarbonization of the shipping industry.
Article
Thermodynamics
Huayi Chang, Nico Heerink, Junbiao Zhang, Ke He
Summary: This study examines the interaction between off-farm employment decisions between couples and household clean energy consumption in rural China, and finds that two-paycheck households are more likely to consume clean energy. The off-farm employment of women is a key factor driving household clean energy consumption to a higher level, with wage-employed wives having a stronger influence on these decisions than self-employed ones.
Article
Thermodynamics
Hanguan Wen, Xiufeng Liu, Ming Yang, Bo Lei, Xu Cheng, Zhe Chen
Summary: Demand-side management is crucial to smart energy systems. This paper proposes a data-driven approach to understand the relationship between energy consumption patterns and household characteristics for better DSM services. The proposed method uses a clustering algorithm to generate optimal customer groups for DSM and a deep learning model for training. The model can predict the possibility of DSM membership for a given household. The results demonstrate the usefulness of weekly energy consumption data and household socio-demographic information for distinguishing consumer groups and the potential for targeted DSM strategies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Xinglan Hou, Xiuping Zhong, Shuaishuai Nie, Yafei Wang, Guigang Tu, Yingrui Ma, Kunyan Liu, Chen Chen
Summary: This study explores the feasibility of utilizing a multi-level horizontal branch well heat recovery system in the Qiabuqia geothermal field. The research systematically investigates the effects of various engineering parameters on production temperature, establishes mathematical models to describe their relationships, and evaluates the economic viability of the system. The findings demonstrate the significant economic feasibility of the multi-level branch well system.
Article
Thermodynamics
Longxin Zhang, Songtao Wang, Site Hu
Summary: This investigation reveals the influence of tip leakage flow on the modern transonic rotor and finds that the increase of tip clearance size leads to a decline in rotor performance. However, an optimal tip clearance size can extend the rotor's stall margin.
Article
Thermodynamics
Kristian Gjoka, Behzad Rismanchi, Robert H. Crawford
Summary: This paper proposes a framework for assessing the performance of 5GDHC systems and demonstrates it through a case study in a university campus in Melbourne, Australia. The results show that 5GDHC systems are a cost-effective and environmentally viable solution in mild climates, and their successful implementation in Australia can create new market opportunities and potential adoption in other countries with similar climatic conditions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jianwei Li, Guotai Wang, Panpan Yang, Yongshuang Wen, Leian Zhang, Rujun Song, Chengwei Hou
Summary: This study proposes an orientation-adaptive electromagnetic energy harvester by introducing a rotatable bluff body, which allows for self-regulation to cater for changing wind flow direction. Experimental results show that the output power of the energy harvester can be greatly enhanced with increased rotatory inertia of the rotating bluff body, providing a promising solution for harnessing wind-induced vibration energy.