Appraisal of a zero energy solar house model via reduction of the ghg emission and improvement of energy efficiency

This study aims to demonstrate the modelling and architecture of a Zero Energy Solar House towards sustainable development, based in first instance on global greenhouse gases emissions mitigation. The methodology is based on multiple criteria accounting for aspects such as electricity conservation, power generation and greenhouse gases emissions reduction. The potential and limitations of photovoltaic systems, as well as the residential sector electricity consumption are studied. The guidelines and strategies of a Zero Energy Solar House are defined, focusing on the use of the sun in architecture, solar heating and photovoltaic system. These studies are carried out through a zero energy house model (considering the annual consumption of a residence connected to the grid) that incorporates the guidelines and strategies of a Solar House. The bioclimatic strategies and solar systems are analysed considering its application in the city of São Paulo. The evaluation of passive strategies for thermal conditioning demonstrates a potential to increase by 70% the hours of comfort in the year. On the other hand, the adoption of more efficient technologies for lighting shows energy conservation potential around 12.5%, within the defined parameters and considering the average residential consumption. The use of solar system for water heating indicates a potential to save up to 16.3% of energy compared to a business-as-usual scenario (traditional house). The electricity generation by photovoltaic systems combined with the adoption of energy efficiency measures demonstrates a potential to achieve, at least, zero net annual energy balance relatively to the business-as-usual residential consumption of the grid. Thus, it is estimated a potential to avoid up to 1.66 t CO2 per year for each housing unit.