Article
Thermodynamics
Luis M. Lopez-Ochoa, Jesus Las-Heras-Casas, Juan M. Gonzalez-Caballin, Manuel Carpio
Summary: The new Basic Document on Energy Saving of the Technical Building Code (CTE-DB-HE) provides the necessary requirements for nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEBs) and promotes renewable energy use in the Spanish building sector. It also introduces specific requirements for electric vehicle charging infrastructures in building car parks. This study analyzes the energy and environmental impacts of implementing the new CTE-DB-HE in the residential sector and shows significant progress in achieving energy-efficient and decarbonized buildings.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Luis M. Lopez-Ochoa, Jesus Las-Heras-Casas, Pablo Olasolo-Alonso, Luis M. Lopez-Gozalez
Summary: The regulations on energy savings in buildings in Spain have evolved in parallel with the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, with the CTE-DB-HE compiling requirements to achieve NZEBs. The latest CTE-DB-HE presents challenges and opportunities for ambitious energy renovation in the Spanish building sector.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Delia D'Agostino, Sofia Tsemekidi Tzeiranaki, Paolo Zangheri, Paolo Bertoldi
Summary: This paper evaluates the development of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) in Europe, including national definitions and energy performance values for different building types. It provides an overview of commonly implemented technologies in NZEBs and projections for the future, while also analyzing the progress made by Member States in terms of definitions, uptake, technology development, and energy performance levels. Challenges and barriers related to NZEBs retrofit are outlined as the next steps in the evolution of NZEBs.
ENERGY STRATEGY REVIEWS
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
D. D'Agostino, D. Parker, I Epifani, D. Crawley, L. Lawrie
Summary: Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, poses a growing global concern affecting environment, health, and economy. This study focuses on the impact of climate change on building energy needs, finding significant changes in energy balance of European buildings under future conditions, with heating decreasing and cooling increasing, especially in Nearly Zero Energy Buildings where efficiency measures will play a crucial role within climate change scenarios.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Maduta Carmen, Melica Giulia, D'Agostino Delia, Bertoldi Paolo
Summary: The building sector is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the EU, with a shift from nearly zero energy buildings (NZEBs) to zero emission buildings (ZEBs). This paper provides an overview of policy developments, discusses key aspects of ZEBs such as energy efficiency and renewable energy, proposes a pragmatic ZEB definition and calculation method, and emphasizes the importance of ZEBs in the EU's climate neutrality strategy.
ENERGY STRATEGY REVIEWS
(2022)
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
Energy & Fuels
M. Hamza, S. Alsaadani, M. Fahmy
Summary: The energy consumption of the buildings sector has significantly increased over the past decade. In Egypt, existing buildings consume 60% of electrical energy. Improving energy performance and achieving nearly Zero Energy Building (nZEB) levels can be facilitated through energy retrofitting and integrated PV techniques.
Article
Business
Johan Niskanen, Harald Rohracher
Summary: New building codes and regulation of energy consumption and CO2 emissions play a crucial role in the low-carbon transition of the housing sector. This article argues that the setting of performance targets and calculation procedures for compliance with the building code is not purely technocratic, but heavily influenced by politics. The implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive in Sweden is used as an example to illustrate the power play and negotiation of interests that shape these calculation procedures and the inclusion in the building code.
TECHNOLOGICAL FORECASTING AND SOCIAL CHANGE
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Sisi Chen, Lihua Zhao, Lintao Zheng, Guanghong Bi
Summary: This article introduces a tool for the rapid and reliable evaluation of NZEB design strategies for high rise office building in the city of Guangzhou in China. Through sensitivity analysis and survey, a high-rise office building with typical geometry features is established, and comprehensive simulations on various envelope features, air conditioning performances and lighting control methods are carried out to determine effective strategies to achieve NZEB.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2021)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Jiashu Kong, Yitong Dong, Aravind Poshnath, Behzad Rismanchi, Pow-Seng Yap
Summary: This paper provides a detailed assessment of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) technology in net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs), emphasizing the importance of factors such as building surface area to volume ratio, window-wall ratio, and solar heating gain coefficient. The study concludes that NZEBs use renewable energy for energy efficiency and carbon neutrality, but face limitations such as neglecting indoor conditions, thermal comfort, and a lack of energy supply monitoring. Combining BIPV with building integrated solar thermal can enhance outcomes, and BIPV designs should follow standards and learn from successful cases, while long-term reliability and structural integrity studies are imperative.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Delia D'Agostino, Sofia Tsemekidi Tzeiranaki, Paolo Zangheri, Paolo Bertoldi
Summary: This data article provides information on the development of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) in Europe, including data on building geometry, primary energy consumption, saving percentages, renewable production, and more. The data offers insights into the efficiency measures and renewable energy implementation in NZEBs.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Zhang Shi-Cong, Yang Xin-Yan, Xu Wei, Fu Yi-Jun
Summary: This study found that upgrading building energy standards to NZEB will contribute 50.1% to carbon neutrality by 2060, while zero-carbon electricity will contribute 49.9%. It is recommended to set 2025, 2030, and 2035 as mandatory enforcement years for ultra-low energy buildings, NZEB, and zero energy buildings (ZEB) respectively.
ADVANCES IN CLIMATE CHANGE RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Weihua Lyu, Zhichao Wang, Xiaofeng Li, Zhen Yu, Yingxia Yang, Jiandong Li, Zhong Wang, Xiaoyu Sun, Guangzhao Sun, Lichao Han, Yan Jing
Summary: Fresh air volume control is crucial in minimizing energy consumption in nearly zero energy buildings. The use of pressure-independent dampers in the fresh air system can accurately regulate the fresh air volume and significantly reduce energy load. Replacing the dampers with variable speed ventilators can further enhance energy savings.
APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Zhijian Liu, Guangyao Fan, Dekang Sun, Di Wu, Jiacheng Guo, Shicong Zhang, Xinyan Yang, Xianping Lin, Lei Ai
Summary: A novel distributed energy system (DES) is proposed to create a nearly zero-energy community, and its design, optimization, and operation strategies are improved to enhance system performance. The results show that the new DES can significantly reduce carbon emissions and net interaction compared to the reference system, and the potential of achieving zero-energy is evaluated.
Article
Thermodynamics
Roya Ahmadiahangar, Hossein Karami, Oleksandr Husev, Andrei Blinov, Argo Rosin, Audrius Jonaitis, Mohammad Javad Sanjari
Summary: The deployment of PV systems in nearly zero energy buildings is rapidly increasing, causing negative impacts on grid stability and power quality. This study aims to maximize PV self-consumption and optimize BESS scheduling to minimize electricity costs through an analytical approach. The proposed method leads to a significant reduction in purchased energy from the grid while maximizing PV self-consumption.
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.
