Low and Zero Energy Highly Performing Buildings

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue is dedicated to developments in low energy and zero energy buildings and in major renovations. Articles dealing with new low energy, nearly zero energy (NZEB), zero energy ready, zero energy, plus energy, and other high performing buildings, as well as with deeply integrated energy renovations are welcomed. The topics to be covered may include but are not limited to the following: energy performance predictions and measurements, performance of HVAC and other technical systems, calculation methodologies, cost optimality, national requirements, and ventilation and indoor climate analyses in buildings. In the background of this issue are NZEB requirements recently adopted in EU Member States, as well as similar developments in Japan, the US, and other countries. NZEB definitions, system boundaries, performance levels, and energy calculation input data show no consensus on a European level, indicating a need for benchmarking and future harmonization. This confusion calls for comparisons and analyses to find out which countries have set the most stringent requirements leading to the best possible energy performance. Evidence-based experience from deep renovation – which technical solutions and renovation schemes have worked and which ones have not – is highly important for EU Member States currently preparing long-term renovation strategies that are expected to substantially increase renovation volumes and are needed for the implementation of the revised EPBD directive. It is well known that energy performance goes hand in hand with indoor climate, and is stressed by the fact that the specification of adequate ventilation and comfort levels is the responsibility of Member States, this calls for comparative analyses on how well indoor environmental quality (IEQ) criteria is set nationally and how good IEQ is achieved in practice in new high performing and deeply renovated buildings. Benchmarking, assessment of technical solutions needed for NZEB, performance analyses, and energy flexibility measures are some examples of topics that are highly welcome in this Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Jarek Kurnitski
Dr. Andrea Ferrantelli
Guest Editors

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