Energy efficiency is sweeping the nation as everyone tries to reduce their energy bills in some form or another. The latest trend: net-zero energy buildings. These buildings will produce all the power they consume with zero carbon emissions, and although they remain somewhat uncommon now, they are quickly gaining significance and popularity.As buildings are accountable for nearly 75 percent of all electricity consumption, they remain one of the largest opportunities to save billions of dollars every year. Technologies involved in this type of project may include hardware solutions, energy efficiency control devices and even smart grid solutions.
The use of dynamic electrochromic glass is one of the most effective hardware solutions as it will let those inside the building control the amount of light and heat being allowed through the window. This glass is able to shift from clear to tinted through a small electric current. When it’s clear, about 63 percent of light will pass through, which is ideal on winter days when natural light will help to illuminate the building and solar heat will help to warm it. In its tinted state, very little solar heat will be allowed through, but it will still provide enough light to reduce the internal lighting, making it perfect for those hot summer days. For the average commercial building, these windows are useful in lowering the electricity peak load by 15 to 20 percent.
Another tool used in net-zero energy buildings is a hybrid load-shifting efficiency technology. For example, ice storage is used as a way to shift peak air conditioning load by using low-priced electricity at night to freeze water. It is then used the next day during a discharge cycle to lower the temperature of the building during peak hours. Operating chillers at night can improve energy efficiency by up to eight percent.
Commercial buildings are not alone. Homeowners are also taking part in transforming their houses into net-zero energy buildings. These homes may use insulated structural panels, geothermal heating and cooling, solar panels, high-efficiency appliances, and even on-demand water heating. Such houses have already begun construction in places like Summerville, South Carolina and Frederick, Maryland. Even with a high initial price tag, these houses are sure to pay for themselves with the amount of energy they save.
The goal of these net-zero energy buildings is to use resources more efficiently, reduce energy usage, and eliminate greenhouse gas emissions. If you’re trying to jump on the bandwagon to lower your energy bills but the costs of these solutions are a bit too high, consider looking into working with an energy consultant. Not only will they help to make your building more efficient, they may also lead you to lower energy rates.
Sarah Battaglia
Energy Curtailment Specialists,
No comments:
Post a Comment